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The Heir of Lyolynn. 



A Tale of Sea and Land. 



IN SEVEN PARTS. 



AND LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES, ETC 



/ 

J. DUNBAR HYLTON, M.D., 

\\ 

Autbor of " The Bride of Gettysburg," "Arteloise ; or, The Weeping Castle,' 
"Betrayed," and "The Prsesidlcide," etc., etc. 



PALMYRA, NEW JERSEY. 

1883. 



INDEX. 



Lyolynn. Page. 

Paet 1st, - _ - - - 1 

"2d, 46 

"3d, 93 

" 4th, - - - - - 145 

" 5th, ... - - - 202 

" 6th, 256 

" 7th, .352 

Lays of Ancient Times. 

Peeface, - - .- - - 436 

Battle of Marathon, - - - 438 

Battle of Thermopyl^, - - 454 

Battle of Cann^, - - - - 481 

Charge of Oddune, - - - • 502 

Battle op Eddington, - - - 511 

Song op the Engineer, - - 521 

The Drought, .... 523 

The Attack on Charleston, - 525 

To Lizzie, 529 

To May, 529 

To Em, 530 

My Yankee Maid, - - - 530 

Charades, 531 

Riddles, 536 

In Memoriam, F. B. H., - - - 539 

Mortals, 640 



PART I. 



Peal upon peal the thunder rolled, 
To utter space its fury told ; 
Like demons of terrific mold 
The blinding lightnings flash'd ; 
Beneath the tempest fierce and cold — 
The surges reel'd and clash'd. 
With ceaseless roar upon the shore ■ 
They ever heaved and toss'd ; 
High in air o'er grim headlands hoar 
The foamy waters cross'd . 
Far out upon the raging deep, 
A league from shore, I ween — 
Careening to the storm-king's sweep 
A stately ship Avas seen : 
No helm nor sail could e'er avail, 
And all the art of man would fail 
In such a frightful storm — 
To save her from the awful clifts, 
Those grim enormous peaks and rifts — 
That those high headlands form . 
Still nearer to the frowning shore, 
Where mountain surges break and roar- 
She drew with every blast ; 



THE HEIR OE LYOLYNN. 

Upon the storm her sails were borne, 

To flying shreds and atoms torn, 

And broken every mast . 

Ah, was it a stunning thunder roll, 

O'er leaping all the storm's control — 

The tempest bore awaj^ 1 

Ah, no I High on that awful reef. 

Beyond all mortal men's relief 

That ship a ruin lay. 

While hard against the ghastly wreck 

The billows waged their fra}', 

O'er human freight that thronged her 

deck — 
High dashed the briny spray. 

n. 

Like awful shadow of a ghost — 

Night sank upon the frowning coast, 

And o'er the raging deep, 

Dreader the shades of darkness scowl. 

While with their hoarse infernal howl 

The chilling tempests sweep, 

Still flashed o'er floods where billows dash 

The lightnings' rudd}'- flame. 

Still with their stunning, deafening crash 

The peals of thunder came . 

And never night more dreadful fell 

Upon a ship-wrecked crew, 

For never storms with fiercer yell 

O'er plunging billows flew ; 

For never grimmer seas than those 

On rocks a vessel threw, 

Never more awful shores arose. 

Did fiercer peaks and rifts disclose 

To ship- wrecked mortals' view. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 
III. 

As burst o'er land and surges' roar 

The lightnings' tingeing glow — 

All grim and ghast did sea and shore 

The swollen corses show. 

O'er roar of seas and thunder peal 

And tempests' fiercest breath, 

Was heard the dread piercing shrieks 

Of those who fought 'gainst death . 

At rock and floating corse thej caught 

And madly strove for life, 

Each striving but himself to save 

In that unequal strife. 

Ah, sad and mournfully arose 

From out those waters wild — 

The farewell, parting , dying cries 

Of parent and of child ! 

Oh, the bubbling, pitieous shrieks 

Of mothers in the wave. 

Who held aloft their little babes, 

But found no hand to save ! 

Oh, God ! the farewell, parting cry 

Of husband and of wife, 

As in their last embrace they. Sank 

And rendered up their life ! 

Oh, God I it deadens nerve and limb, 

And makes the senses reel and swim, 

And human blood grow cold. 

To hear such pitieous, parting shrieks, 

And such dread scenes behold ! 

To hear the blending shrieks that rise 

Above the tempests' roar, 

The breaking of the vessel's planks 

And surges on the shore. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLTNN. 

Died out the wail of agony — 

But here and there arose — 

The wild cry of some strong swimmer 

In his last dying throes . 

'Till all grew still, save the fierce howl, 

And the terrific roar 

Of relentless blasts, and surges 

Dashing on the granite shore. 

IV. 

High up a tall slippery rock 

That frowned o'er floods sublime, 

Whose head lean'd o'er the waves as though 

To hear their awful chime, 

Whose iron base had worn away 

By storms and waves through time, 

Nine of that crew with bleeding hands 

Where seen to slowly climb . 

All the rest full three hundred souls 

That noble vessel bore — 

Lay lifeless midst the raging brine 

Or on the beaten shore. 

As drift-wood that in the flood time 

Floats where the torrents rove, 

That in rafts on eddying floods 

Sweeps to a circling cove, 

And rocks with waves until by them 

It on the shore is hove. 

So by those seas the dead were borne, 

Up on the shore were drove. 

While some sank in the di'ead abyss 

Where did roaring eddies flow, 

Where horrid sharks and serpents vast 

Siezed them as they went below. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

8uch the Sovereign will of Heaven, 
The fiat of their God, 
At whose will seas and tempests roar, 
The mountains quake and nod, 
His mighty spirit trod the flood, 
And rode the storm sublime. 
And bade the warring elements 
Knell their funeral chime. 



But who were those nine bleeding forms 

That climbed the frowning rock, 

Which to its deep foundation shook 

Beneath each billows' shock ? 

The foremost was a swartly man 

With features sharp and long, 

With form thick set, compact and broad 

Sinewy limbs and strong. 

His piercing eyes were black as sloes, 

Or coals of anthracite. 

Black as wood when charred by flame, 

But sheen as Labradorite. 

And in their keen vindictive glance 

Lurked deepest craft and guile, 

His shaggy brows waved dark above 

His features stamped with wile. 

His nose projected o'er his mouth 

All like an eagle's bill. 

And on his thin, curving lips were seen 

The proofs of stubborn will . 

His sable curls waved heavy round 

A forehead bold and high . 

His bearings all revealed a mortal 

Of blackest, deepest dye. 



THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 

And such, was Omar De Yaux 

The foremost of that throng 

Who toil'd up the slippery rocks 

With nerves and sinews strong. 

And on hia back a child he bore 

Whose face was j^ale and thin, 

Whose heavy, golden ciirls fell o'er 

A neck of snowy skin . 

A little girl twelve summers old, with 

Rosy mouth and dimpled chin, 

A child all beautiful and bright. 

The heir of Lyolynn . 

Poor child, she'd seen her parents go 

Locked in one close embrace — 

Beneath the ocean's stormy flow 

And end their earthly race. 

And she with them beneath the wave 

Had found a roaring, angry grave, 

Sank like the reed that in the cave 

Of ocean sinks forlorn — 

Had Omar's arm not come to save. 

And on the rock with courage brave 

Her slender frame had borne. 

VI. 

The next who up that steep rock strode 

Was one of giant height. 

His close curled hair and sable skin 

Like ebon cloud of night. 

Black, blacker far than coke or tar, 

Than gome or soot or jet. 

Black as the floods when at black night 

They 'neath no tempests fret . 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

He was one of Afric's children, 

Darkest hued of all that race, 

No blacker skin e'er shone upon 

An Etheopean face. 

Seamed o'er were his high massy cheeks 

With horrid gash and scar' 

Where knives in days gone by had past 

Midst drunken broil and jar. 

One eye was gone, the other roll'd 

With never ceasing blink, 

Bobbing like some huge ball of white 

In seas of blackest ink. 

His receding forehead, at least 

Where forehead should have been — 

Seemed though an axe had passed that way 

And hewed it clear and clean, 

For from his brows unto his crown 

Sloped with a mighty lean. 

No flatter nose, no wider mouth 

On Kangaroo was seen, 

But two huge tuskes were left to gleam 

His massy lips between. 

As some grim monster of the sea 

Up the steep rock he crept, 

With his long coiling snake-like limbs 

His hold with safety kept. 

De Yaux's trusty slave was he, 

His guard both night and day, 

Where e'er the master chose to go 

The slave was sure to stray. 

One more suited to the other 

Chanced never to befall. 

And Bayard was this footman called 

By master and by all. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 
VII. 

As up the rock he struggled hard 

De Yaux's wife he bore, 

Whose raven tresses hung in folds 

His sable shoulders o'er. 

O'er her form that all was graceful 

Though rather tall and lean, 

Full twenty years had ta'en their flight 

To look at her, 3'ou'd ween. 

Her eyes were bright as diamond's light, 

A.nd black as thunder cloud. 

Her face was pale as snow-white sail. 

Or corpse in sable shroud. 

Her curved lips could scarce eclipse 

The pearls that 'neath them crowd, 

Her stately tread and queenly head 

That never bent nor bowed — 

Her forehead high and flashing eye 

Bespake her spirit proud. 

Fell on the ear like music rare 

Her voice though deep and loud ; 

Her skin that beamed too snowy seemed 

For one so sable browed. 

Though all her face did features trace 

Queens had left their crowns to own, 

Yet over all like heavy pall 

A tell-tale sign was thrown — 

And showed you one whose love anon 

Could wither where it grew. 

Let there fell hate as fixed as fate 

Dethrone all love she knew. 



THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 
VIII. 

The rest I could in order limn 

As there they were with mornful brow, 

And features haggared, gaunt and grim, 

But I needs must pass them now. 

If e'er the muse should seek their aid 

Trust to her she'll find them soon. 

Let them room in eternal shade. 

In midnight, morn, or glowing noon. 

No depth so deep no height so tall 

To which she cannot dive or bound. 

And swift they '11 gather at her call 

When e'er she peals the summon's sound. 

But ere we pass them lightly by, 

Those haggared men, those wretched five, 

"Who climbed the rock so steep and high — 

Though bleeding, faint and scarce alive ; 

We'll paint their portraits one by one, 

Hold them fast within our mind, 

So when they come to us anon 

No utter strangers we shall find. 

Hunyadi was the next who climbed. 

Ballad rhyming formed his trade. 

And by his muse that sweetly chimed 

The glowing wine he loved he made. 

Fair was his form though brawny spread, 

His sinews nobly grooved and laired, 

His high broad brow and stately head 

With yellow wavy locks were haired. 

Ever in dreamy mood he seemed, 

As though his thoughts were far away, 

The soul that in him flashed and beamed 

Loved from its mortal part to stray. 



10 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

His was the arm that from the wave 
To the rock Omar's wife had borne, 
Whence Bayard stretched his arm to save, 
Who first upon the rock had gone. 
And others long he strove to save, 
Nor vainly, vainly did he strive, 
'Till hurled there was he by rolling wave, 
Torn, bleeding, sore and scarce alive. 
The other four who struggled o'er 
That frowning rock so tall and steep — 
Hunyadi's hand had brought to land 
From out the plunging billows' sweep. 
The next that came was Roger Lea, 
Amongst that tempest beaten crowd, 
An aged hoary man was he 
With body feeble, bent and bowed. 
His wrinkled face displayed no trace 
Of kindly thought for human kind, 
Nought but insatiate greed and gain 
Filled his whole heart and soul and mind. 
His hoards by millions he could count. 
Yet ever, ever craved he more. 
Though as a never ceasing fount 
Bright gold did in his coffers pour. 
Woe to the luckless sons of man 
Who owed to him and could not pay. 
Right soon that toothless mouth o'er ran 
Those bloodless lips with spittly spray ; 
And no excuse that they could plan 
Would save them from the Sheriff's prey. 
His face no smile was seen to span, 
Nor on his wrinkled visage play, 
Save when some fool he chanced to scau 
Whom he could cheat of hoard away. 



THE HKIR OF LYOLTNN. H 

IX. 

Guy Harold was the next we scann'd 

On that high rock by tempests fann'd, 

And roaring billows laved ; 

A tar of tall and brawny form, 

A nurseling of the waves and storm, 

He'd all their terrors braved. 

His soul was just as wild and free 

As wave that rose upon the sea, 

And with the tempest raved. 

On ocean he'd been born and rear'd 

To manhood's sturdy prime, 

And bred 'mongst men who little fear'd 

To peril deeds sublime, 

In his keen gra}^ unquailing eye 

There lurked a mj^stic spell, 

And beamed his glances proud and high 

That challenged where they fell. 

Little he cared for that grim wreck 

That there was round him strown. 

For since he'd trod on vessel's deck 

Full many he had known. 

Far off his piercing glances gazed 

O'er ocean's rise and fall, 

To where a reeling light-house blazed 

Midst surges grim and tall. 

And as the pharos downward passed 

'Neath ocean's stormy flow, 

A dirge he poured upon the blast 

All freighted wild with woo. 

At length with husky voice he said, 

"Within that light-house dwelt 

The one for whom my soul has most 

The germ of friendship felt. 



12 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Whose image never shall depart 

Through all revolving time, 

But graven on this filial heart 

Until eternity shall start 

To hear her death notes chime. 

For his strong love for me did last 

Through all my weal and woe. 

When clouds were grimmest round me cast 

With all their flery glow, 

Yes, perils terrible and ghast, 

When ten-fold was my foe, 

And me all other aid fled fast 

His love did warmest flow. 

Together oft on stormy flood 

Amidst the battle's wreck. 

Terrific scenes of death aud blood, 

We twain have trod the deck. 

'Twas he who taught my tottering feet 

When but a babe to move. 

Who ever tempered cold and heat 

So they'd to my comfort prove. 

Who through all day-time me caressed, 

And when the day was done — 

At night lay down with me to rest, 

Yes, I his only son. 

Who has aye been foremost in my soul 

In peace or calm or wreck, 

When tempests bade the billows roll, 

And surges washed the deck. 

Who in yon light-house 'neath the sea 

This instant met his death, 

With whom I shall in reunion be 

When fails this vital breath. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 13 

Yes, death shall another mating bring 

Be3'ond the i3ortals of the tomb, 

Nor shall e'er we assunder be 

As was here on earth our doom. 

A stately ship will shortl^^ come 

I'll see it through the densest gloom, 

With sails all spread from topmost mast 

To furthest shrouds and boom. 

I shall hear the waters splash 

As she bears me to that solemn shore 

Where shall reunited be in peace 

The sire and son for ever more. 

He ceased but still kept his vision fixed 

On ocean's stormy flow, 

At times with the howling tempest mixed 

A dirge of wildest woe. 

X. 

Next on that craggy steep incline 

Close lying side by side supine 

Bi-acklin and O'Conna lay, 

And sighing gazed upon the brine 

That o'er them dashed its spray. 

Poor wretches they had husbands been 

And fathers yesterday, 

But in those roaring floods they'd seen 

Their idols washed away. 

Oh, who could paint their looks of woe, 

Their faces haggard, wild. 

As there they lay and sorrowed low 

For perished wife and child ? 

Theirs was a blow a shock that makes 

The senses rock and reel, 

A grief that takes the soul and breaks 

It on a burning wheel, 



14 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Grief for which earth can no balm bestow, 

Nor time can ever heal, 

That grim wild woe no words can sliow, 

Nor limner e'er reveal. 

The pale, writhed and quivering lip, 

Loosed nerve and reeling brain, 

The trembling hand, the quaking grip — 

Palsied through mental pain — 

The form convulsed with agony 

"Wracked with its tortured soul — 

The red and fixed and glaring eye — 

Whose scoothing fount of tears is dry — 

Or froze and cannot roll — 

The pleading and imploring look 

On features ashen'd by despair — 

Which tell the form no more can brook 

The throes that through its spirit tear — 

Are awful pictures to behold. 

Most ghastly, dread and strange and drear. 

But euch signs as these the anguish told 

Of those two mortals lying there. 

Still seemed to come from out the wave 

The bubbling shriek, the drowning cry, 

Of those dear ones they could not save 

And seen amidst the waters die. 

But grief through time will reach its goal 

Past which it cannot range 

And it will nature soon control, 

It to some thino; else will chanare. 

XI. 

Such were those wrecked and mournful 

nine 
Who from that rocky steep incline — 
Looked on vast roaring floods of brine 



THE HEIR OP LYOLTNN. 

That 'neath them heaved and rolled ; 

Which through the ebon shades of night — 

As plunging on the frowning height — 

That shook beneath their swelling might — 

Their awful fury told. 

Oh, 'twas a sad and sickning sight 

To gaze on each poor ship-wrecked wight — 

Whose features all were grim with fright-— 

Or sorrow's manifold — 

Watching — longing for Aurora bright 

To turn the darkness into light — 

And tinge the cast with gold I 

No words within the human sway — 

Their wild, deep longing can portray, 

Nor can mortal verses mold. 

XIT. 

As over land and sea at times 

Swift shot the lightnings keen 

The features of that mournful throng 

A moment's space were seen. 

And round the heir of Lyolynn 

De Vaux's arms were thrown, 

Close to his breast the child was pressed, 

By him as tenderly caressed 

As she were all his own. 

As loving parent strives to soothe 

The soiTOWs of his child — 

So in her ear his words he poured 

In accents bland and mild. 

She's all now mine, thus thought De Yaux 

And such shall ever be, 

Nor craft nor force of man and fiend 

Shall sunder her from me. 



15 



1^ THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

She is the heir to castles fair 

As yet on earth were rear'd. 

To hills and plains and rich domains 

As ever mortal heir'd. 

If to womanhood she lives she'll be 

Of beauty's throng the flower, 

And he who wins her for his bride 

Will have a matchless dower. 

But for long time I'll hide the child 

Far from her kith and kin, 

And they shall all be taught to think 

The heir of Lyolynn 

Is resting in her dreamless sleep ; 

I'll swear I saw her go — 

With her loved parents side by side 

Beneath the ocean's flow. 

And there'll be none that can refute 

The tidings that I spread, 

For all who her and. parents knew 

Save me and mine are dead. 

And they'll be bound by Love or fear 

To aid me in my plot. 

Yes, they'll ne'er turn from me, how e'er 

Desperate be my lot. 

Oh, how the whole accursed clan 

Of Mosman's would rejoice — 

To hear John Lockhart and his wife 

Had died amidst the billow's strife 

And o'er this their only child, the surge 

Had bellowed forth its fearful dirge — 

Tes, stilled for aye her voice ! 

Within the whole creation round 

No gayer mortals could be found — 

Than that accursed race. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 1*1 

Oh, how the halls of Lyolynn — 

If once within their grasp they win — 

They'll stride with lordly pace 1 

Once heirs unto those wide domains, 

Their grassy hills and fertile plains 

There 'd be no prouder name, 

And none throughout the county wide 

Would show more arrogance and pride, 

Without a blush of shame. 

And I shall raise their pride to heaven 

But to dash it down to hell. 

For none among the sons of Fate 

I have a juster cause to hate 

And treat with vengeance fell. 

Yes, when I've raised their hopes on high. 

And broad dominons seem to lie 

Within their very grasp. 

To their deep horror and chagrin 

The rightful heir of Lyolynn 

Shall tear them from their clasp. 

Yes, they shall be my sport and prey, 

I'll treat them in the self same way. 

Prey is treated by the asp. 

That draws it by its fatal charm 

It vainly striveth to disarm — 

Close within its power. 

That pla3^8 and frolics with it long. 

When it little dreams of harm and wrong 

Has ceased to quail and cower — 
Then feels it charmer round it bring 
The coil from which it cannot spring, 
And through it feels the fearful sting, 
While crushing jaws still closer cling 
Preparing to devour. 

With pleasure to its very brim 
2 



18 THE HEIR OF LYCLYNN. 

I'll fill their sparkling cup, 

But dash it into fragments grim 

Just as they lift it up. 

The ties of blood that do exist 

Between their race and mine — 

Shall be an ample cloak I wist 

To hide each dark design ; 

They'll serve as clouds of morning mist 

That round the mountains twine — 

And though by laughing suns they're 

kissed 
Still hide each tall incline — 
Down which unseen avalanches tear, 
And hidden torrents flow. 
Whelming each startled mountaineer 
Within the gulfs below. 
Yes, for long time my hate I've nursed 
Against the Mosman line, 
T was them who at the very first 
The holy tie asunder burst 
That made our lives divine, 
I curse them and they shall be curst, 
'Gainst them I'll do my bitterest worst, 
As they've done to me and mine ; 
Me from all I loved they thrust, 
All I sacred deemed and dear, 
Crushed all ra}' hopes within the dust, 
And trampled on them there. 
For that fell hate towards them I keep 
Within my spirit warm. 
And all the crimson tides that leap 
In currents through my form, 
Though still as clouds where lightnings 

sleep 
That nurse the growing storm. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLTNN. 19 

xni. 

So thought De Yaux, while in his arms 
That poor, frail, trembling child he held. 
And by fond caress and accents mild 
With sleep her many sorrows quelled. 
Poor child she little dreamed that he 
Who gently held her sleeping there, v 
Who'd saved her from the plunging sea, 
And for he showed such tender care. 
Upon her built the brightest hope 
His bold and savage soul e'er knew, 
With which with foes he sought to cope, 
And deal on them the vengeance due. 
In thought he met them charge to chargs; 
Saw them from him downward broken roll, 
His spirit ne'er felt so grand and large — 
For they seem'd crushed 'neath his control; 
And never o'er so broad a marge 
In triumph swept his savage soul. 
Yes, he thought, she''ll be ray sword and 

targe 
With which to work them endless dole, 
For this I saved her when yon barge 
Crushing on granite found its goal. 

XIV. 

Aurora dawn'd upon the sea. 
The thunder and the storm were hushed, 
And the broad floods all tranquilly 
Unto the beams of morning blushed, 
Like murderers that trembling stand 
Before their stern accusers e3'e — 
Prom whence they cannot, dare not fly, 
Who show the blood upon their hand, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And o'er their form the crimson dye ; 
Which stains to hide they vainly try, 
So 'neath the sun all bright and grand, 
Abashed the waters seem'd to lie 
Around that corpse encumbered strand 
Of frowning granite steep and high. 

XV. 

'Twas a long line of craggy rocks 

The morning's light rcA'ealed, 

Upon the peaks were croaking flocks 

Of gulls that lay concealed. 

And where the screaming Albatross 

Rose and soar'd o'er ocean's field. 

Nor tree nor shrub nor grass nor moss — 

Did those wild head-lands jdeld, 

Not even a brier or goss 

Did atom of those rocks emboss, 

Nor vestige of a plant, 

All bear of these as molten dross, 

Or channel of a roaring fosse, 

Stood gleaming with a dark brown gloss 

Those cliffs of adamant. 

Some stood recumbent o'er the deep, 

As though to bear the billows sweep — 

Around their curving base. 

Or see when storms are lulled to sleep. 

The little wavelets laughing leap, 

And wrinkle ocean's face. 

Some rose abrupt and steep and high 

As though they did the floods defy 

With stern disdainful frown, 

Or as if they strove to reach the skj' — 

And catch the levin bolts that fly 

When clouds are thick and temjaests cry 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 21 

Around their lofty crown ; 

Some gently slanted from the sea — 

As though the ■waves through time — 

Had made them sloping, easy, free, 

For ship-wrecked men to climb. 

Such was the kind it chanced those nine 

Had in the darkness found, 

Or to where tossing floods of brine 

Had borne them in its bound. 

XVI. 

'Twas noon and the bright summer sun 

Poui'ed down its piercing rays, 

On sparkling seas and head-land dun 

It beam'd in one unclouded blaze. 

The tide was low, and deep below 

That vessel's shattered deck — 

Guy Harold and Hunyadi were 

Trophies seeking 'midst the wreck. 

From out the waters chill and brine 

Unto the craggy shore — 

Full many a cask of bread and wine 

These hardy mortals bore ; 

'Till food for all the ship-wrecked nine 

They'd piled an ample store. 

And huge, long planks of oak and pine 

From out the wreck they tore, 

And brought them up the steep incline 

To the head-land's summits hoar. 

Where at night 'neath the pale moon shine 

They made a beacon roar, 

Where by the hand of human line 

Flame was never lit before, 

So passing seamen might divine — 

There, aid was needed sore. 



22 THE HBIR OF LTOLYNN. 

And for treasure too of different kind 

Harold and Hunyadi sought, 

At each trunk or chest that they could find 

With eager hands they caught,, 

And silver bright and gold refined 

From many a chest they brought. 

Rings set thick with stones of starry light, 

And goblets rough with gold, 

And urns of massy silver bright — 

Wrought in the choicest mold 

Reward all their dangerous toil ; 

As 'neath their load of shining spoil 

They leave the ghastly wreck — 

Hunyadi a labled package lifts 

While to the rising tide it drifts 

Beneath the shattered deck. 

"Title — deeds of Lyolynn, 

And Lockhart pedigree," 

Was written on that package thin 

In letters bold and free. 

And by Guy Harold all unseen 

He hid it in his breast, 

And lifting to the sky serene 

A face in smiles all drest, 

With joy he whispers in his mind, 

I thank Thee Lord of all 

That Thou hast been to me so kind, 

For what I sought for, did I find. 

And 'twill save the orphan's fall. 

Now let the demons plot and plan. 

Their craft shall all be foiled, 

Yes, let them work, do all they can, 

They'll find me armed and in the van, 

Nor shall by wile of fiend nor man 

That orphan be despoiled. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 23 

Thus to himself Iluiiyadi thought, 

As from the wreck his spoils he brought, 

Following the dangerous road— 

On which his friend Guy Harold strode, 

Who groan 'd beneath his golden load. 

XVII. 

Night's draper3' had shrouded all ; 

Like a dark, sad funeral pall 

Upon a lifeless breast — 

It wi'apt the rocks and silent seas, 

For not a single breath of breeze 

Disturbed their perfect rest. 

All nature lay as in a swoon, 

Or with a trance oppressed, 

The pale, dim, waning, cheerless moon 

Was hiding in the West. 

Just as she seem'd upon the verge 

Of the horizon dim. 

Just as it seem'd she did submerge 

Beneath the water^s brim. 

An object passed her disk before 

And there it seem'd to stand, 

An object small, in size nomore 

Than some frail human hand. 

And as the moon went down from sight, 

That object kept its place, 

Resting like a spirit of the night 

Upon the ocean's face. 

All save two stood gazing there in awe, 

With parted lips and straning eyes. 

As they some dreadful jihantom saw 

From out the depths of ocean rise. 



24 , THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

XVIII. 

The moon beneath the waters sank, 
And where she beam'd but darkness grew, 
Amidst the night air chill and dan-k 
From Bight the distant object drew : 
And all those faces pale and blank 
Put on a darker, drearer hue, 
Yet stood they gazing from that bank 
Where nought but waters could they view. 
Nor from their fixed and stony stare 
They o'er the wastes of ocean kept 
They moved 'till like a trumpet's blare — ■ 
A mighty trumpet shrill and clear — 
O'er seas the voice of Harold swept. 
Who on that head-laud's top-most height 
Stirring a crackling fire stood, 
That pour'd a crimson tingeing light 
Far o'er the ocean's silent flood. 
Like that tall, grim shadowy form, 
Seen near dread Etna's blazing cone — 
When rise at night her flames enorm — 
And to the sky their glare is thrown — 
So near that beacon's roaring flame 
Upon the far off dizzy height 
Towers that seaman's giant frame. 
Through the waving shades of night ; 
The leaping flames his shadow throw 
O'er ocean far as eye could view, 
The blazing glow his features show, 
All in a strange unearthly hue — 
Haggared his features seem'd to glow — 
To those who on the rocks below 
Looked up, wondering what he meant, 
For with yell on yell the air he rent, 
As he stirred the bickering flame. 



■I'HE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 25 

Shrouded in storms of sparks his frame — 
As some tall spirit of fire s&nt 
Shouting 'midst his roaring element 
On some drear reef all stately piled, 
To rouse the night with terrors wild, 
So on the height that seaman's form 
Midst storms of flying sparks they view, 
While louder than the breath of storm 
His clarion voice o'er ocean flew. 
Soon, distant far across the sea 
A sudden flame flashed broad and free 
And cannon's deafening peal they heard ; 
Loud as though huge volcano roar'd — 
The tingeing flame and thunder pour'd, 
And ocean's solemn stillness stirr'd. 

XIX. 

Then with a voice all free of woe 

The hardy seaman call'd — 

To those who on the rocks below 

Stood gaping and appall 'd. 

Now let your hearts to Him give praise 

Who guards His children ever, 

Though He smiles or frowns upon their 

ways 
He will desert them never. ♦ 

That little speck ye trembling saw 
Upon the ocean's breast. 
That filled your spirits so with awe. 
Your souls with fear oppressed — 
Though all surpassing human law — 
In grimmest terrors drest — 
Some ghoul was seen within whose maw 
In shreds your forms should rest — 
A stately ship shall greet yovir sight 



26 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

When morning streaks the East with light 

Her crew have seen my beacon bright, 

And for this was yonder cannon's might 

Sent roaring o'er the brine, 

But hold ye no such blind belief, 

She will near this dangerous reet 

'Till morning's beams shall shine. 

Oh, oft at night on rocks like these, 

When toss'd from out the raging seas 

I've been a ship-wrecked man, 

I've let the midnight blast and breeze 

My glowing beacon fan. 

And bade it send its waving glare 

To hail some distant bark. 

Let it be seen through leagues of air, 

However dense and dark. 

And ere shall many hours throng 

Upon the face of time, 

We shall be safely borne along 

O'er floods within some vessel strong. 

Far from this rocky clime. 

So let's pass the night with mirth and song, 

Nor doleful look as men of crime. 

Who feel the hangman's tightning thong. 

And die in life's full rUddy prime. 

Though our friends lie yon wreck among, 

And we hear nomore their voices chime, 

By slaying them God meant us no wrong ; 

Though His ways are hidden and sublime — 

He would not the meanest plant that blows 

Needlessly overwhelm with rime. 

If such mercy e'en for plants He shows, 

Much more must be the love that glows, 

For U3 who in His own image rose 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 2T 

Beneath His plastic hand, we, the heirs 

Of all the cj'cles of the years, 

Of all eternity and time. 

A love for Him bej^oiid control 

I feel through all my being roll, 

Which effervescing keeps my soul 

As water filled with slaking lime! 

Now I'll quaff deep of ruddy wine, 

Though my father sleeps beneath the brine 

I'll wake the night with song, 

O'er seeming ills I cannot pine, 

Nor think the ways of God are wrong. 

I'll tell a tale of ages old, 

A tale of dole and woe, 

'Tis styled The Phantoms of the wold, 

My father sang it long ago. 

Then quaffing deep of ruddy wine, 

Still standing on the steep incline 

Beside his beacon's glow. 

On yielding air o'er rock and brine 

These words began to flow. 

sx. 

The Phantoms on the wold. 

A castle stands on craggy lands 

Hard by the flowing sea, 

A castle grand as e'er was planu'd, 

As ever chanced to be, 

As e'er was reared by human hand 

On mountain, moor or lea. 

And in those stately towers dwelt 

In distant years of yore 

A maid as fair as ever knelt 

The shrine of saint before. 



28 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 

As fair as e'er till then was seen — 

Or ever has been since, 

As fair as e'er became a queen, 

Or won the loving hearts I ween 

Of peasant, knight or prince. 

Though her did matchless beauty bless. 

Her mind her looks belied, 

Her soul was a den of selfishness. 

Her heart a throne of pride. 

Many a knight renown 'd in fight, 

Many a haughty peer. 

And baron bold as e'er of old 

Had ever couched a spear. 

And many a king in listed ring 

For those transcendent charms — 

To be their lord had drawn the sword, 

And singly all victorious warred 

Against a mighty martial horde. 

Or welcomed death in arms. 

But king and peer of knightly strain 

Vainly came to woo and win, 

All met alike but cold disdain 

From this heir of Lyolynn. 

From a far distant rocky isle. 

Laved by a stormy sea, 

There came a king to win her smile, 

A mighty warrior he. 

Before this shrine he humbly bowed, 

In homage bent the knee, 

But still her heart was cold and proud, 

No love for him showed she. 

Her face looked placid as the moon. 

And pride flashed in her eye, 

E'er move her heart he might as soon 

Have sought to touch the sky. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 29 

XXI. 

On the towers of Lyol^'nn 

The star of evening shone, 

And vainly that warrior strovie to win 

That barren heart of stone. 

Edith of Lyolynn he said, 

I from o'er the ocean came — 

Brought hither by what rumor spread 

■Of thy beauty's deathless fame, 

And ages yet unborn shall hear 

Of thy transcendent charms, 

Long as to the heart of man is dear 

A maid with lips like roses fair, 

With sparkling eyes as star-beams clear, 

Buddy cheek, long brown wavy hair, 

And soft, round, snowy arms — 

To win from thee one loving smile 

I've journied here alone, 

For thee I left my distant isle — 

Yes, periled life and throne. 

And never shall I homeward go 

Back o'er the ocean's stormy flow — 

"Without thee as my queen ; 

If I can't win thy heart with words, 

If they can't move its subtle chords, 

I'll win thee with the clash of swords 

And lances strong and keen. 

I'll prove my love for thee fair maid 

Where starkest blows are plied, 

In strife my spear and trusty blade 

Shall win thee as my bride. 

Or I shall in the dust be laid — 

Earth with my blood be dyed. 



30 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

XXII. 

Sir king, the haughty maiden said, 

While on his shoulder brawny spread 

She lightly dropped her stately head 

"Whose face with blushes ros}^ red 

Was sweetly mantled o'er, 

Think not through saint or fiend's command 

Shall Edith jield her heart and hand — 

To any king of sea or land — 

Though true, he should the bravest stand — 

Who e'er in battle drew a brand — 

Or ever crown 3'et wore 

'Till he his love for her had proved 

On field of death and gore — 

Midst scenes as wild as ever moved 

On carnage covered moor. 

Sir king, upon to morrow morn 

Three thousand knights and five. 

Haughty and stern as e'er were born — 

The bravest knights alive. 

At one small blast from this frail horn 

In tourney lists shall strive, 

Men, who to free my name of scorn 

Straight unto death would drive. 

And thou amongst the lists ma}^ move. 

And there they knightly prowess prove 

Before my judging ej'es, 

For only he who victor stands 

Transcendent o'er those martial bands 

Shall win the peerless prize. 

Yes, he who shall as victor ride 

Amidst the fierce and bloody tide — 

Where blows are most terrific plied — 

And knight-hood shall be fullest tried — 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN 31 

Only he, shall win nie as his bride. 

The prize, that victor knight shall win 

Is me, the heir of Lyolynn — 

With all my lands and towers ; 

Yes, all my broad dominions fair, 

And every stately castle here 

That o'er the ocean lowers. 

Thou valiant warrior bold and true, 

A deed of daring thou mayst do 

Ere skies with morn be red ; 

A knight there is, I hear his mail 

Loud clanging now in yonder vale 

I hear his charger's tread. 

Never a stronger knight thaai him 

Has ever rein'd a horse. 

For all my chieftains huge and grim, 

Strong as towers in form and limb 

Have sank beneath his force, 

At night he comes all cased in mail — 

From yon deep wood o'er shadowed vale 

On steed as fleet as mountain gale, 

Just as the moon beams o'er the dale, 

And loudly doth mine ears assail 

With language harsh and gross, 

And oh, it makes me quake and quail 

To hear his voice morose I 

If thou wouldst now thy knight-hood prove, 

And thy just sworn and proffered love. 

Do then from this fair castle move 

Upon til}' coal-black steed, 

And lay 3'on out-law wild and rude 

Who comes with such fell speed 

Prone in the dust with blood bedew'd, 

Nor let him thus on me intrude, 

I'll thank thee for the deed. 



32 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

But ere thou goest, thou valiant knight, 

I'll tie this strip of ribbon white, 

Just here around thy helmet bright. 

In triumph let it wave 

Above thy foeman stark and dead, 

And when thou hast his heart's blood shed, 

Stain it with his life-blood brave, 

Yes, bring it to me gory red, 

No other boon I crave. 

She said, and round his helmet bright 

With hatred beaming frown — 

She tied the strip of spotless white. 

And laced his visor down. 

XXIII. 

Up to the very castle wall 
Rode that steel-clad rider tall — 
On steed as white as frost. 
And with a voice all weird and low. 
As winds that seem to wail with wo© 
Through blasted pines the deserts show 
He did the maid accost. 
Edith, heart of stone, and soul of pride, 
Thou heir of Lyolynn, 
I come again though oft denied, 
Has not my prowess oft been tried ? 
Am I not meet for such a bride? 
I swear to woo and win. 
I won thee in the listed ring 
When broke was saddle, rein and girth. 
When horse and rider I did bring 
Prone on the bloody earth. 
For thee I did each rider fling, 
Each baron, knight and lord, 
Who, did withstand the fearful swing 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 3o 

Of this my conquering sword ? 

Come forth, tliou art my well earned bride, 

And ere I thee forgo — 

I'll crush thy heart of stately pride, 

Thy towers shall fall, thy realm be dyed 

With a reeking crimson glow. 

If I'm longer of my prize denied 

'T will bring thy people woe. 

XXIV. 

The castle gate was open swung. 

As ringing sledge on anvil flung — 

Its ponderous bars of iron rung 

As dashed 'gainst walls in speed, 

Forth through the rocky arch-way sprung 

Upon the coal-black steed — 

Him from the stormy sea bound isle, 

Who to win that maiden's rosy smile — 

Periled the daring deed. 

All sheathed was he from head to heel 

In armor flashing bright. 

In glorious panoply of steel 

As ever clanged in fight. 

But he on the steed as white as snow 

Soon as he saw the coming foe 

Swift couched his spear in rest, 

And strong as torrent in its flow 

When summer suns on mountains glow — 

And snows to rushing waters go 

That Bwell its roaring breast. 

So swift and strong that fearless knight 

Upon the charger huge and white 

To meet his coming foe in fight 

Onward thundering pressed. 



84 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

XXV. 

Now haughty knight, the maiden cried, 

As she the meeting chiefs espied, 

Prepare to face thy death, 

For never a stronger knight than he — 

Who now for me opposes thee 

Has ever drawn a breath. 

My castle gate shall open be 

'Till morning's light shall tinge the sea. 

And he who shall as victor ride — 

From out the fierce and bloody fray. 

For sure, I ween 'twill be no play, 

Shall then come in the chosen lord 

Of these dominions fair and broad. 

And shall I be his bride. 

XXVI. 

They met upon the frosty wold, 

Those huge champions strong and bold — 

On chargers black and white, 

The winds were rising brisk and cold. 

The moon gave forth her light, 

A sable cloud that moment roU'd 

From off her features bright — 

Whose dense and sluggish, murky fold 

Had hid her long in night ; 

The hour of one the bell had told 

From topmost turret's height. 

With Bpears in rest and visors down 

They met in fell career, 

They met for fortune, fame, renown, 

Broad lands and maiden fair. 

Their spears though huge and long as masts 

Seen in some stately ship, 

Flew on air in splintery blasts 



THE HKIR OF LYOLYNN. 35 

Up to the very grip. 

Prone on the bare and frosty wold — 

Stopped sudden in their flight — 

Both steeds and riders backward roll'd, 

The chargers black and white. 

Oh, ne'er 'till then had mortal men 

Of such stupendous force — 

E'er breathed the air or couched a spear, 

Or yet bestrode a horse. 

And never trod on rock or sod 

Since nature's birth began — 

Such steeds enorm in limb and form, 

Nor strength of such a span. 

XXVII. 

Up sprung from earth each hero proud, 

And drew his mighty sword. 

As lightning darting from its cloud 

Far flashed the falchions broad. 

As upon towers tall and grim 

From heaven comes down the flame — 

So upon head and trunk and limb 

The gleaming broad-swords came. 

On adamantine steel they rung 

The air was rife with sound, 

O'er Lj'^olynn the echos sprung 

Unto its furthest bound. 

The crush of breaking steel rung loud 

Upon the frosty air, 

And arms that did those chiefs enshroud — 

On earth were broken there, 

The breast of either hero proud 

Was swelling broad and bare. 

But still their helms and visors gleam'd 

Uninjured by their blows, 



36 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Through night the polished helmets beam'd 

As either fell or rose. 

Oh. had thejr but a moment slid 

From manly features that they hid, 

Or by a blow been cleft, 

And reveal'd to either hero's stare, 

Who, but his brother warring there, 

No tale like this with sorrow drear — 

Had been told in long after year. 

Nor to mankind been left 1 

Deep in the bossom of each knight 

Was sent each falchion keen and bright 

Up to the glowing hilt ; 

The crimson tide their bodies dyed. 

And on the wold was spilt. 

And then as fall two columns tall 

Beneath the heaven's flame. 

So side by side those chiefs of pride 

On earth together came. 

But he who sail'd from o'er the sea, 

The king of many isles — 

Just as he falls upon the lea 

In wakeless slumber smiles. 

The ribbon of all spotless white 

He for the maiden wore 

Waved sadlj' in the breeze of night 

Besprinkled with his gore. 

But when the maid beheld him there 

Dead on the bloody ground, 

She tore her hair in grim despair. 

And drawing near she filled the air 

With cries of mournful sound. 

Alas, she said, a knight more fair 

Shall ne'er on earth be found, 

Nor king more to his people dear, 



THE HEIE OF LYOLYNN. 37 

Whether in peace or battle gear 
Shall ne'er again be crown'd. 

XXVIII. 

Then faintly spoke the bleeding knight 

Who rode upon the charger white, 

Come doff this hero's helm, 

For never have I found in fight 

One so hard to overwhelm, 

No stronger man in battle van 

E'er fought for life or realm. 

And though stark dead the warrior be, 

All fain would I his features see, 

So when I meet him on that shore 

Where only spirits dwell, 

That is, if there, for ever more 

They bear the forms that here they bore, 

Or features wear as here they wore. 

Then I shall know him well ; 

As I view him there I'll proudly say, 

That ne'er on earth by night or day 

Braver hero fought and fell. 

The features of the dead she bared, 

Doflf'd helm and visor all, 

Full on the face that there appear'd 

Did the pale moon-beams fall. 

As on the features cold and white 

The wounded warrior gazed — 

Fell sorrow wrapped his soul in night, 

Grief sat his spirit crazed. 

At length he said in solemn dole. 

Oh, Rafno, brother of my soul. 

And art thou lowly laid I 

And by thy friend, thy brother's hand, 

And with wile and treachery plann'd 



38 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

By this accursed maid, 

Whose soul ne'er gladdens and delights 

Save in grimmest, grisliest sights 

The clang of arms, the death of knights, 

And flowing of their blood. 

Whose heart is barren as the heights 

Of rock near ocean's flood. 

Though mankind search the world around 

Inch by inch o'er every rood 

So ruthless heart shall ne'er be found. 

Nor maid of such a mood. 

For pride and cruelty thy fame 

Shall o'er the world rebound, 

Men yet unborn shall hear thy name. 

And shudder at the sound. 

As Edith of the Cruel Heart, 

Mankind shall speak of thee : 

And at thy history shall start 

As if they felt a poisoned dart 

The fibers of their spirit part — 

All races j^et to be. 

As some dread meteor of woe. 

Of long, dim centuries ago 

That on earth poured death and pain. 

And pestilence as clouds the rain, 

And whelm'd mankind with fears, 

So wrapped in everlasting prime 

Thy name and fame shall stand sublime, 

The brightest on the peak of crime 

Through all the night of years. 

Thy heart is hard and harsh as hell, 

It caused this bloody deed. 

Through thee the noblest hero fell 

That ever rode on steed. 

And oh, that human tongue should tell 



TITE HEIR OF LYOLTNN. S9 

This thy worst and grimmest crime, 

That while we fought thou knewst full well 

Yes, knew all the bitter time — 

That Rafno king of stormy isles 

Was brother unto me. 

Yet, kept the secret in thy heart of wiles 

Till pierced and slain was he ! 

Ay thou harsh she— fiend dark and fierce, 

Through thy infernal wiles — 

Did I my valiant brother pierce, 

The king of man}^ isles. 

Alas, I never dream'd 'twas him, 

I thought him far awa^^, 

Oh, God, what evil foul and grim, 

Brother, brother thus to sla}' ! 

Oh, God, the night is drear and long, 

But the longer night is near, 

I hear Death chant his doleful song. 

His knell is in mine ear ! 

But maid accursed, dark and fell. 

Yet, ere I cease to breathe — 

All, all the grimmest fiends of hell 

Shall thee with horrors wreathe. 

Then swift as though he had no wound 

Up from the earth he sprung, 

Not swifter e'er did eagle bound 

To guard her callow j^oung. 

And as on rose in summer storm 

Bursts down the levin flame — 

So through her head and all her form 

His mighty broad-sword came. 

Clean split in twain or earth she lay, 

As tree by lightning's blast. 

Then on his brother's lifeless clay 

Just as the East with morn grew gray 

That hero sobbed his last. 



40 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

XXIX. 

On the towers of Lyolynn 

The beams of morning broke, 

And long and drear}^ was the din 

Of dole that there awoke. 

The man}^ knights who on that morn 

Were in the lists to ride — 

Who at the blast of that small horn 

Were all to rush in pride — 

'Till all were bleeding, crushed or torn — 

And with grim slaughter d3^ed — 

The pi-ize a heart of hate and scorn, 

A fair, though ruthless bride, 

All joined within the wail forlorn — 

Till all was sorrow far and wide 1 

O'er all the lands of Lyotynn 

Was only sorrow seen, 

But far less for that maid of sin — 

And temper hard and keen — 

Arose the wail and doleful din — 

Than for the brother kings, I ween, 

When years had sped for those brave dead 

The anguish still was green. 

XXX. 

Since that dread night 'till now have past 

A thousand years and nine. 

Yet does this mournful story last 

Amongst the human line, 

And as revolving suns bring round 

The month, the time, the night, 

As the hour of one doth sound • 

From topmost turret's height — 

The peasants see upon the wold 

Beneath the pale moon-shine — 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 41 

Hard by a tower hoar and old 

Built on a steep incline — • 

Two grim steel-clad champions ride 

On chargers black and white, 

With morions casting far and wide 

A waving, fitful light. 

Their dazzling armors gleam like flame 

Across the frosty wold, 

At times is heard a wild acclaim 

Rise on the breezes cold. 

The clang of breaking steel is heard 

And shakes the frozen ground 

As if a mighty earthquake stirred 

And filled the air with sound. 

And o'er them in the liquid air 

Another sight they see, 

A woman's body hovers there 

Cleft through head and form is she. 

And as the halves would aye unite 

To form a whole again, 

There sweeps a falchion broad and bright 

And severs them amain. 

Lily and rose her cheeks disclose, 

The red with white divinely glows 

In mingled glory there, 

The sweetest hues the rain-bow shows 

Still e'en in death they wear. 

With beauty rife such as in life 

Her features still appear, 

As when blared the fife and roar'd the strife 

And for her heros pressed the bier. 

Her eyes of light, still, still are bright 

With all their lifelike sheen, 

Her long dark hair still floats in air 

Her parted form between. 



42 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And though the night be dark with storm, 

The whirlwinds be abroad, 

Yet are seen those chiefs and steeds enorm, 

As when they were alive and warm. 

And warred with peer and lord. 

And still is seen tliat cleft phantom form, 

Through it gleams a flaming sword. 

Only when the ^^ears the peasants tell 

Have to five thousand run, 

Shall her cleft form united dwell. 

And rest her soul from terrors fell 

For those dread murders done I 

Nor till then for those two kings as well 

Shall be forgiveness won. 

XXXI. 

Here ceased his melancholy laj^. 

O'er rocks the echos died away, 

No longer stii-r'd the air with sound, » 

O'er ocean utter silence frown'd, 

Sweet sleep the singer's voice had still'd. 

Yet still through Omar's bosom thrill'd 

The doleful tale that seaman sang, 

Still in his ear its accents rang. 

And fill'd his fiery heart with pang. 

As though it felt an adder's fang. 

The while he heard that seaman's tale — 

His visage gaunt and grim and pale, 

When came the name of Lyolj'nn — 

Changed from frowns to a savage grin. 

Against rocks that lean'd o'er ocean's flood, 

With beating pulse and bounding blood 

With none save Ba3'ard near he stood, 

His thought I ween but little good 

For human kind the while did brood. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 43 

At length he spoke in sullen mood, 

Where e'er I turn, where e'er I go, 

Midst summer's shine or winter's snow, 

No height so tall, no depth so low. 

But mong mankind I meet a foe, 

They follow me through weal and woe, 

When waters run or breezes blow. 

E'en on this reef so drear and lone — 

They boldly make their presence known, 

Even that seaman gaunt and grim, 

I see I have a foe in him ; 

Ne'er had ho sang that doleful rhyme, 

And laid snch stress on Edith's crime. 

And shouted so with stormy din 

The ancient name of L^^olynn, 

Had he not known the secret all 

On which I build m}' rise or fall, 

I'll swear by body and b}' sonl 

He knows my secrets, knows the whole. 

Else never had he sung that rhyme 

At such a place, at such a time. 

Nor made Lyolynn so often chime 

With Edith's pride and Edith's crime. 

Then, thus did Baj^ard make reply, 

The while he spake his huge white eye 

Roll'd like drunken moon in sable sky, 

Fiend like grins did from this visage glare, 

All hell seem'd centered in his stare, 

My noble master wherefore fret ? 

Thou hast thy trusty Ba3'ard yei ? 

He, as thou wilt, can sell or let, 

Collect for thee, or pay thy debt. 

And ever ready is my knife, 

At thy command to wage the strife. 

All save yon and I are sleeping now 



44 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Ill climl) me to the head-land's brow 
Where sleeps yon seaman, drunk, I trow, 
And soon he'll end his earthly life 
Who fill'd thee so with anguish rife. 
He said, and keener breath he drew — 
As from its sheath his dagger flew. 
Stop, Bayard stop, the master said, 
This night we must not lay him dead. 
'Twould be no use to slay him now, 
And more of him I yet would trow. 
But go, my trusty Baj^ard go. 
Soon as the morning's beams shall glow, 
The tide will at that time be low, 
And all within yon wreck will show. 
See if thou findst a trace there in 
Of Lockhart or of Lyolynn, 
Some papers mongst that wreck are strown, 
I'd give one half the world to own. 
While seeking for the dead, take thj^ ease 
And keep a sharp look out for these. 
Here ceased their words, for on their ear 
Came sounds of something moving near; 
Scarce half a rood from them thej^ found 
Hunyadi stretched upon the ground ; 
To them he seem'd as fast asleep. 
As though he lay in slumbers deep. 
Then Omar spoke, the bard sleeps sound, 
He has with wine his troubles drown'd. 
Just look how pleasing seems his brow, 
It were a shame to wake him now. 
I've heard, 'tis while poets take their rest 
They breed their noblest thoughts and best. 
So speaking, but keeping him in view 
From the seeming sleeping bard they drew. 
And thus they did tneir speech renew. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 45 

Bayard, think 3'ou yon poet sleeps, 

Or on ns twain a vigil keeps ? 

Think you, he our speech has heard ? 

I could almost swear but now he stirr'd. 

No, said Ba3'ard. Not a single word 

Has fallen on that poet's ear. 

Where he awake and lying there, 

From what I saw him drink, I'd swear 

He is too drunk to see or hear. 

They ceased, then silent stood awhile, 

And eyed each other with a smile. 

XXXII. 

Little they dream'd that every word 
They'd breathed had by the bard been 

heard. 
When something moving reach 'd their ear, 
The bard had stirr'd upon his lair. 
For when of papers Omar spoke — 
A sudden flash like lightning stroke 
Across his drowsy spirit broke, 
And it to instant action woke. 
Then 'mongst his clothing torn and wet, 
He placed his hand to see if yet — 
Those papei'S lay within his vest, 
Gave them a squeeze, then lay at rest, 
As though with heavy sleep oppress'd. 



46 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 



PART II. 



Gray, feeble streaks of coming dawn 
Along the Eastern ek}^ were drawn, 
Those tints which on the verge of morn 
Faintly the horizon's sphere adorn, 
Wrought by the sun which far below, 
Causing his flaming beams to flow 
In long waving lines of feeble glow' 
O'er skies as night begins to go, 
But moves her lazy shadows slow. 
While straight a dim reflection throw. 
All the particles dense and rare 
Which float within the atmosphere ; 
Or the material atoms there. 
Which make, compose and form the air. 
And oh, how glorious they seem 
When night sinks in the arms of morn, 
And splendors of the da3"-god's beam 
Those atoms with full light adorn I 

II. 

'Twas the first, faint tint of dawn, I said, 
Long ere the horizon colors red. 
When just enough of light is shed 
O'er sky and sea and mountain head, 
The joyous tidings can be spread — 
The day is born, the night is dead. 
And o'er the ocean's tranquil breast 
Did the keen eves of Harold rest. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 41 

Calm to the skies' o'er arching span 

The ocean stretched its boundless van, 

And all the sky that met its view 

Was mirror'd in the waters blue. 

No flying mist through either swept, 

Nor in the air a vapor lept 

Before the morning zephyrs warm, 

Nor cloud 'Lween sky and ocean slept, 

But the placid, limning waters kept 

A perfect image of its form. 

The screaming sea-gull as it flew 

Above that stirless field of blue, 

Could flap its wings and look below 

And bird with flapping wings 'twould show, 

Which ever way its flight it wield, 

Let it arise, dart forth or fall, 

There its perfect image was reveal'd, 

Its form, its size and movements all, 

Each streak of light the heaven wore. 

Image of the streak the ocean bore, 

Yes, every tint and shade and hue. 

Was mirror'd in the waters blue 

As perfect as the sky put on. 

As brighter grew the horizon, 

Same lustres did the ocean don. 

To tell the morn's increasing glow 

He need not look on reddening skies 

But cast his eyes on floods below 

And there see all its glories rise. 

But not on morn's increasing glow 

Alone o'er seas did Harold gaze. 

Nor mark the flaming sun-beams flow 

To set both sea and sky ablaze. 

One small black spot on ocean's face 

Far ofi" as human e3'e could scan, 



48 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Did his keen eyes delighted trace 

Across the waters breathless span. 

And as it plainer grew to sight 

Across the ocean's tranquil brow, 

As nearer drew broad sails of white 

Above a vessel's sable prow, — 

All the wild joy that fill'd his soul. 

And, sparkled in his beaming eyes, 

Joy's ebb and flow that there did roll 

With never ceasing fall and rise, 

By those alone can best be told. 

Yes, onl}^ truly they can limn 

O'er whose wrecked bark the floods have 

roll'd. 
And cast them on a head-land grim 
Who see some vessel drawing near 
To bear them from those reefs away ; 
When flapping of the sails they hear, 
Who, their wild rapture can portra}' ? 

III. 

While Harold gazes o'er the flood 
With throbbing pulse and bounding blood. 
And spirit glowing breast ; 
Among the shelving rocks below, 
Amidst that wreck and scenes of woe 
Were roaming all the rest. 
Save Ellenore, De Yaux's wife, 
Who with lanthe Lockhart stood 
B3' Harold's side, the beauty rife 
That glow'd within lanthe's hood — 
Beam'd on the seaman's dazzled eyes 
With blushes like tlie tints of morn. 
When its full glory decks tlie skies 
And rosy hues doth all adorn. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 4t) 

In silence on the child he gazed 
As one all wrapped in dumb surprise, 
As one with doubt or joy amazed, 
And cannot from the stupor rise. 
And as he eyes each charm that crowns 
That infant's face with ruddy glow, 
The while alternate smiles and frowns 
O'er his sun-browned visage flow, 
'Tis strange indeed, at length he said. 
But while last night I slumbered here, 
I dream'd I saw just such a head, 
And such a face as blushes there, 
Yes, just such face and head and brow, 
Kobed in just such crimson hood. 
Such long brown wavj' hair, I vow, 
Bound with just such a yellow snood, 
A girl dress 'd complete as she is now 
In my dream before me stood. 
Yes, clad in just such purple gOAvn, 
And hood with just such crimson glow, 
A girl Avith tresses long and brown 
The same as o'er her shoulders flow; 
A form like her's from feet to crown 
More perfect could no limner show. 
Yes, teeth with just such pearly gloss, 
Lips sweet as ever smiled on man, • 
And cheeks with just such downy floss 
As on a full ripe peach we scan. 
With swan-like neck, and hands and arms 
All formed in nature's choicest plan. 
Like her's nomore transcendent charms 
Did waters lave, or breezes fan. 
Well, hear what joass'd within my dream, 
Me thought in some strange land I trod 
Near the marge of a mountain stream, 



50 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Lily and rose bedeck'cl the sod. 

'Twas noon, and warm the sun did beam 

O'er teeming grass and barren clod, 

Fagged at last by this sultr}- gleam 

Me thought I towards a grove did plod ; 

For pines and oaks of giant girth 

Towered in mighty forests there, 

It seem'd all trees that grow on earth, 

There, sent their branches in the air. 

But all was utter silence round 

Not e'en a bird I saw nor heard. 

Of bird nor beast no single sound 

The stillness of those forests stirr'd. 

But serpents speckled, huge and grim, 

Of every shade and hue I found. 

Each tree I saAV, on everj^ limb 

It seem'd a grisly coil was wound. 

At times their hiss, and onl}- this. 

Disturbed the silence all profound. 

Where e'er I turned mine eyes discerned 

They cvimbered a!l the trees and ground. 

Back from the grove I turn'd in haste 

For through it all the coils seem'd curl'd, 

No foot, I thought, these lands have traced 

Save mine, since God had made the world. 

IV. 

Back, back with hasty feet I strode 
To where the mountain river flowed. 
And while upon its bank I stood, 
Me thought I heard a fearful scream. 
And lo — a girl with crimson hood. 
With purple dress and yellow snood 
Came flying from the snake wreathed wood, 
To where I was beside the sti-eam. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 5^ 

And at her heels, while swift she sped, 
Me thought I saw' a serpent dread. 
Come gliding, hissing, tearing on 

With never ceasing bound, 

As came the scream, the hiss anon 

Would strive to drown the sound. 

On earth she sank with fearful j^ell 

A yard from where I stood. 

While straight the serpent huge and fell, 

With tongue that seem'd a flaming hell, 

Tore at her crimson hood, 

Then as a thunder bolt more swift 

Or sands that on the tempests drift 

Within my hand a club I caught 

One massy, huge and long, 

Down on his horrid head I brought 

The weapon swift and strong. 

Then from the ground with sudden bound 

He coil'd around my form. 

Right in my face his head he brought, 

His throat within my hand I caught. 

As there I felt his breathing warm. 

Tighter, tighter with ceaseless toil 

I around his throat did grasp, 

I felt him loose his cursed coil 

Yes, every fold unclasp. 

I held him by his grisly throat 

Till ceased his tongue to flame 

'Till I nomore could see or note 

A breath from out him came. 

Then afar with a sudden twirl 

His lifeless form I thi-ew, 

And from the earth the frighten 'd girl 

Within my arms I drew. 

And on my breast I held the child 



62 THII HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

'Till all her terror flew, 
A girl with just such features mild, 
Where Beauty all her charms had piled, 
Like those that now I view. 



Again a horrid hiss we heard — 

That fill'd the air with sound, 

And something 'mongst the lilies stirr'd 

That sweetly deck'd the ground ; 

1 look'd, and lo, both far and near, 

'Mongst all those beds of lilies fair, 

I saw the eyes of serpents glare — 

On us with never ceasing stare. 

As flamed their tongues with forked flare 

Loud rong the dread infernal blare 

Of never ending hiss. 

Nought else disturbed the stagnant air. 

But terrible was this, 

AH else was still as dumb despair 

Wrapped in the tomb's abyss. 

On, on, still on, they hissing drew. 

But as they rose right full in view, 

And seem'd in act to spring. 

From the heavens rushed down a cloud, 

That peal'd with thunders long and loud 

Wrapp'd them in a fiery shroud, 

And instant death to all did bring. 

Then swift the cloud enormous grew, 

And on the snake wreathed groves it flew 

In one terrific sheet of flame. 

All was wrapped in fiery glow ; 

We saw a mighty whirlwind l)low, 

And broader still the glow became. 

And fearful ever and anon. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 53 

As the storm of fire swept on, 

A voice we heard, a voice sublime, 

Loud as the thunder of all time, 

Gathered in one terrific roar. 

And rocking earth from shore to shore, 

Saying these words : Ye sons of crime 

My wrath shall blast ye in 3- our prime, 

Of this I warn'd ye in full time, 

Told 3^e, that orphan was my care. 

To guard her I would aye be near. 

And that my vengeance fell and dread, 

Should fall on those who ever dare 

To harm one ringlet of her head, 

But, no, ye would not deign to hear, 

My warnings all unheeded were, 

So take my vengeance dread and drear, 

My vengeance dire and severe. 

Not one I pity or shall spare, 

And through all hellshould round her flare, 

Still to shield that orphan, I'll be there. 

VI. 

While thus the awful voice roll'd on. 
Grimmer terrors did the fires don, 
Far broader, broader flashed the flame. 
And louder still its roaring came. 
Such din in polar seas I've heard, 
When leagues immense of ice and snow 
Are into sudden motion stirr'd, 
By thawing suns that o'er them glow. 
When bursting oceans through them flow 
And down the floes immense are hurl'd. 
O'er heights in headlong overthrow. 
Yes, clashing, roaring, thundering go, 
Down mounts that jar in floods below. 



54 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Mounts, which though onl}' ice they show, 

Are huge as any in the world. 

No bursting I'ocks 'neath earthquake 

shocks, 
Nor huge volcano's fiercest throes, 
Could equal half the din and roar, 
That from tlie polar oceans pour. 
When headlong pitch the mountain floes. 
Yet from that storm of rushing flame 
Still louder shocks and roaring came 
Than e'er from polar oceans rose. 
Yet o'er all din that there in stirr'd, 
That awful voice was ever heard. 
Loud and distinct was every word. 
On my breast this girl hid her face, 
Though she had no cause to fear. 
And o'er my eyes a little space, 
To shield them I my hand did place — 
For they could not stand the glare. 

VII. 

Soon hushed the voice and roar of flame, 

A universal silence came 

And brooded over all. 

O'er all the fields was stillness dread. 

Though all there on was smitten dead, 

And on the mountains tall. 

Yes, we no sound nor stir could hear 

Save our hearts that beat with fear, 

We heard their rise and fall. 

Then o'er the lands my gaze I cast. 

Where stood the snake wreathed forests 

vast, 
And where had roared the flame. 
To my deep wonder and surprise 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 55 

Tall, stately forests met mine eyes, 

Where ever my vision came. 

Though all, the blazing storm had fringed, 

And on them in full blast impinged, 

Yet not a single leaf was tinged, 

Nor scorch'd beneath the glow. 

All where late the fire had been. 

Still blushed in universal green 1 

Lovely as when they first were seen 

Such hues they still did show. 

Violet, rose and Lily bloom'd 

In all their glory there, 

And ev'ry plant around assumed 

A loveliness all rare. 

With fragrance was the air perfumed, 

Nor atom there look'd sear. 

But there through all the forests round, 

O'er all the bare or grassy ground. 

No sign of serpent could be found. 

Nor could a hiss be heard. 

All, all had vanished it did seem 

With that tempest's fiery gleam, 

Like the dim phantoms of a dream 

When from slumber we are stirr'd. 

Gone like the shadows of some tree 

That long ago 'neath axemen fell. 

Left the earth to the sun-shine free, 

Where never more its shadowsdwell. 

Soon the air seem'd rife withsweetest sound 

With songs the woods did all redound, 

For they were filled with happy birds. 

O'er meads with thyme and clover crown'd. 

Skipping lambs and kids were seen to bound 

And far and wide stretched grazing herds. 



5 ft THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

VIII. 

A sudden change flew o'er my dream 
Like some swift cloud across a stream. 
Far to the right o'er hill and plain 
Slowly moved a funeral train 
• In never ending file. 
I heard their low and solemn dirge, 
Doleful as winds that ride the surge 
That plunges to some darksome gurge, 
Neath grim volcanic isle. 
Or a wail like the nightly moans 
Of spirits in some desert land, 
That gather round their bleaching bones 
That lie unburied on the sand. 
Though gloom wrapped that funeral train — 
Like mists that gather for the rain^ 
And spread their vail o'er hill and plain 
We saw it all, and heard each sound. 
Like a river that seeks the main — 
They pour'd unto a burial ground, 
With them coffin after coffin seem'd. 
Bier on bier in unceasing row ; 
Yes, coffin after coffin stream'd, 
A doleful, grisly, sickening show. 
And as the church-yard met my view, 
That seem'd a waste of fresh dug graves. 
These screaming sea-gulls o'er me flew, 
Night's phantoms from my sight withdrew, 
1 woke to find t'was all untrue. 
Saw only skies lit with morning's hue. 
These rocks and yonder sleeping waves. 

IX. 

Had Harold as his dream he told. 
But only once his vi sion roU'd 



TUE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 67 

Upon the face of Ellenore, 
That seaman's piercing e^^es, I "ween, 
Had seen the rancor and tlie spleen, 
That lit her eyes so dark and sheen, 
And frowns of hate her visage wore, 
When e'er he praised lanthe's mien, 
Or the transcendent cliarms she bore. 
But ere his tale of horror closed, 
Told of an all protecting arm, 
How some unseen power opposed 
All those Avlio sought to work her harm, 
Swiftlj- from her face the color fled, 
And horror through her spirit thrill'd, 
Features were death-like pallor spread 
A cold and clam}' dew distill'd. 
As one who from a nightmare wakes, 
And 3'et, still feels it load his breast, 
So from her horrid fears she breaks, 
Yet void of fear she cannot rest. 
At length with trembling voice she said, 
And words all doleful in their tone, 
For still fell terror through her sped. 
And thrill'd her, marrow, nerve and bono ; 
I've often heard that seamen place 
Strong faith in omens and in dreams, 
And they great import aye can trace — 
In what to others of the human race 
Mere empty nothing seems. 



Say, seaman is this really so, 
Say, have 1 heard aright. 
Or can 3'ou any import show 
Out of your dream last night? 
Madame, he with a smile rfrturn'd, 



58 TPIE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

If I've aright my dream discern 'cl, 
This little girl that here we see, 
For ought I know thy child may be, 
Mongst fearful dangers shall be thrown 
As e'er to mortal child were known. 
But she shall safely pass through all, 
And she will ride in triumph grand 
O'er those who strive to work her fall, 
For God shall shield her with His hand. 
And the hour will come I see, 
Although it may be years ahead, 
That I shall some assistance be, 
Yes, aid her o'er her foes to tread. 
For while I dream'd it ever seem'd, 
Though shadows fell on all around, 
For clouds across the sun's disk stream'd. 
And darkness o'er the landscape frown'd, 
Yet, ever in a bright sun-shine. 
Yes, midst its ceaseless glow we stood; 
And child, her face was all like thine. 
The form, the dress and crimson hood, 
The mien complete from head to feet. 
The self same yellow snood. 

XI. 

Here Harold paused, and Ellenore 

No single word in answer said, 

While all her face a pallor wore. 

Such as might well besuit the dead. 

A sudden tremor through her pass'd. 

That quivered both her soul arid form. 

Like aspen bough beneath the blast 

Ot some all silent, unseen storm. 

It shot like light through limbs and frame 

And quivered on her ashen lips, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 59 

And o'er her eyes that beam'd like flame 

There came an instant's strange eclipse. 

The seaman marked her altered look, 

She scarce her feelings could control, 

As though some deep emotion shook 

The inmost fibers of her soul. 

That it seem'd rack'd on some dread wheel 

Of grimmest, wildest torturings, 

And wriggled like the writhing eel 

The angler from the water brings. 

But all unconscious of the cause 

Harold pitying eyed her there, 

And after a suspended pause 

Thus gently broke the silence drear. 

" The air is dank and chill, I see 

It makes 3'ou shiver and turn pale, 

So here, take you this cloak from me, 

'Twill make you feel more warm and hale." 

With that from olT his burly form 

His heavy seaman's cloak he flung, 

And straight the mantle huge and warm 

Around De Vaux's wife was swung. 

XII. 

As some poor bird that trembling lies, 

Spell-bound beneath a serpent's e^-es, 

And from its charmer cannot fly, 

But ever nearer and more nigh 

Sees that its dread enchanter draws, 

With glaring fangs and open jaws ; 

Then sees the coil around it roll'd, 

And quakes within the awful fold. 

But ere of life 'tis wholly shorn, 

The huntsman moves amongst the thorn, 

And wakes with sound the breeze of morn 



GO THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And brings his tread all unawares 
On the unseen hideous coil, 
And bursts the charm that there ensnares 
The bird and frees it from the toil. 
So sudden when that seaman spoke, 
And round the woman drew his cloak, 
So swift her tremor wild and dread, 
And pallor from her features fled. 
Swift, straight a lively, ruddy red. 
Was o'er her queenly visage spread. 
Her eyes their wonted lustre shed. 
Like diamonds flashed in crystal bed. 
Erect she rear'd her haughty head, 
And firmer grew her stately tread. 
A sprightly air she straight did don, 
And warm, sweet smiles her face put on. 
As one transform'd by magic charm, 
That slumbered in some wizard's arm 
Or some all potent spell. 
That instant lulls the dread alarm 
That secret dealt its dole and harm. 
And wracked the spirit fell ; 
So sudden from that tremor's stroke 
The spirit of that woman broke, 
And unto spriteliness awoke, 
The instant that the seaman spoke, 
And kindly round her drew his cloak, 
With a smile upon his lips. 
As flames that 'sunder burst the smoke 
That long did them eclipse. 
And round it form a blazing rim, 
O'er all its murky body skim, 
Disperse with light the darkness grim, 
All through it send a ruddy glim, 
Where erst was only vapor dim, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. (51 

So she from the tremor broke, 
As there her e3'es she fix'd on him 
Who then so kindlj^ spoke, 
Though he was strong in form and limb 
As bole and branch of giant oak. 
All full of daring thought and whim. 
From head to heel a seaman trim, 
In tears his eyes were seen to swim. 
And even o'er their sockets brim. 
For as with cloak he did her don, 
With kindl}- speech he still kept on. 

XIII. 

Lady, you, and yon child, I ween, 

Never before have ship-wreck seen, 

Nor e'er 'midst such wild scenes have been, 

But I, alas, have oft been thrown 

On head-lands wild and drear. 

Seen wreck and corpses round me strown, 

Just as we see them here. 

But what has ever, always torn — 

My soul with anguish most, 

Yes, made my spirit feel forlorn. 

And sear as this drear coast ; 

Has been when 'midst the dangers wild, 

The wreck, the wave or storm, 

I've seen some little babe or child. 

Or yet a woman's form. 

I never reck'd a single straw. 

And never shall, I trow. 

When e'er a seaman's form I saw 

Beneath the surges bow ; 

I saved him if I could, if not, 

Let him with the billows go. 

For thus to die is seaman's lot,. 



62 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And well their fate they know. 

Thorough seamen, born and bred, greet 

The ocean as their grave, 

The floods their home, their winding-sheet 

And tomb the trackless wave. 

But oh, when 'midst the dangers wild, 

On reef or ocean's flow, 

I've seen a woman, babe or child, 

My soul 's been stirr'd with woe. 

XIV. 

Me thinks I can recall a scene, 

That happened long ago. 

The blasts were blowing stark and keen. 

And made the billows flow, 

Though all the stars in happy sheen 

Looked on the floods below. 

And not a cloud of storm, I ween 

That night the skies could show. 

I stood the while beside the helm 

Where I was wont to be, 

And steer'd the vessel o'er that realm 

Of never ending sea. 

Across the vast unfathomed wong 

Right gallantly we flew, 

Charm'd by the breezes stirring song, 

That fill'd the canvas tight and strong. 

And on it ceaseless blew. 

I remember my thoughts were bent, 

As they were wont to be, 

On him who with yon light-house went 

Beneath the stormy sea. 

Yes, no matter where my feelings flow'd, 

Whatever scene they trod, 

He was the foremost thing they show'd, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. P3 

In business, or with God. 

For the same hour I was born, 

Ere scarce I'd breathed this air, 

Of life, my mother, she was shorn 

I never knew her care. 

And none save him in all this earth 

E'er seem'd to feel for me. 

'Twas him who rear'd me from my birth , 

Reared him who now yon see. 

Yes, from infancy to manhood, 

I was ever at his side, 

And in her place to me he stood, 

Who had in travail died. 

'Twas only when to manhood's prime 

His only child had grown, 

And o'er his head a crown of rime 

Five and eighty years had thrown. 

That came the cruel, bitter time, 

Each would gladly ne'er have known — 

For us who loved with love sublime, 

The parting knell was blown. 

The grief of that trying hour 

Which severed him from me, 

Neither time nor change had power 

My bosom yet to free. 

There it still blooms like some flower 

That knoweth no decay, 

That blows in some lonely bower, 

Whence all else has pass'd away. 

Where e'er I've sail'd, what ever deck 

I've roam'd, or stormy main, 

'Midst calm, 'midst hurricane or wreck, 

'Midst sunshine or 'midst rain, 

Round him nw soul has ever lagg'd 

In all its joy or pain, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And as I roam'd it seem'd I dragg'd 

An ever length 'ning chain. 

And when I have homeward steer'd, 

After long and weary voyage, 

When my chosen land appear 'd, 

And we pass'd the line of buoyage ; 

And in those waters for a while 

With joy the anchors cast, 

Thanked our Maker with a smile 

That we were home at last ; 

While others rushed with rapture rife 

To seek their mother, sister, wife, , 

Or the future angel of tiieir life. 

To give their hard earn'd hoard 

What they had won 'midst billows' strife 

And 'midst dangers stored, 

I sought one lonely gray hair'd man, 

Who \7as too old to toil, 

And while joy our heart o'er ran, 

I round him cast my spoil. 

Now he has gone, who's heart will burn 

With grief or love for me 

When I go forth or I return, 

From out the bounding sea ? 

Now he is gone within my soul 

Is left a yawning void, 

Each hope that held it in control 

Is utterly destroyed. 

When I go forth or I return 

No kindly words I'll hear, 

Nor see an eye with rapture burn. 

Or flood with sorrow's tear. 

Alas, alas, that hoary man 

All bent with toil and age. 

No more my flame of joy shall fan. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 65 

Nor sorrow shall assuage I 

Just here the seaman's voice grew hoarse, 

His hand was seen to rise, 

'And hide some di^ops that found their source 

Within his large gray eyes. 

A mighty tremor through him pass'd, 

That shook his giant form, 

And heaved his breast like waters vast 

When troubled by a storm. 

Seem'd a cold shiver through him ran 

And quivered on his lips, 

And blanched his cheeks all ghastly wan. 

As frost that rose-bud nips. 

Loud beat his heart against its wall — 

As though it had not room to throb, 

And his throat seem'd all too small 

To vent the mighty sob. 

XV. 

Lady, he thus resumed as pass'd 

His throe of grief away, 

My mind has wandered far and vast 

From what I mean't to say. 

Well, 'twas on that night while full and tight 

The breezes fill'd the sails, 

And o'er head we heard it tightning hard 

The shrouds and stays and brails. 

Through rattlings, gommets and carings 

It sang as sweet a tone 

As yet from ^olian harps 

On human ear was blown. 

Far o'er the vessel's stern we saw 

Her never ending wake, 

And ceaseless at her prow we heard 

The waters dash and break. 



6G THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

No clouds wore seen, but all the stars 

Shone o'er the ocean's roar, 

As sheen that night as e'er were seen 

By any seaman's gloar. 

On, on we flew with nought in view 

But never ending foam, 

And cloudless skies that o'er us spread 

An ever starry dome. 

Suddenly near the mizzen-mast — 

On its topmost yard I saw, 

The form and visage of a child. 

That made me pant with awe. 

Arraj^ed was she in spotless white, 

Snowy wreath her forehead bound. 

And a zone of glittering light 

Encircled her around. 

Oh, God the ghastly, haggard face. 

Features horrid with despair, 

The sunken cheeks, the svmken eyes 

With bright yet awful glare. 

The frail, emaciated form, 

That seem'd as thin as air, 

The hand and arm so wasted all 

That met my vision there. 

Will ever in my mind be fix'd, 

And ceaseless haunt my soul, 

As there she seem'd, in me she's limned 

With all her look of dole 1 

XVI. 

The breezes blew and on we flew 

In never ending chase, 

And still where it first came in view 

The phantom kept its place. 

The light aromid it brighter grew. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 67 

And o'er its sunken features threw 

An all sepulchral, death-like hue, 

O'er form as well as face, 

Then waned the light from red to blue, 

And smaller grew its space. 

Then all at once from sight withdrew, 

Left not a single trace. 

And vanished straight the phantom form. 

Like flash of light in midnight storm 

That dies away exactly where 

Grew and flashed it dreadful glare : 

So on the spot it met my stare, 

The phantom seem'd to melt in air. 

So strange it came so dread it seemed 

Had I been all alone, 

I would have thought that I had dream'd, 

And let it so have gone. 

Bnt by twelve other men 'twas seen. 

They saw the same as I, 

And they'll before the world, I ween, 

Attest it is no lie. 

When we saw the form and light depart, 

With terror quaking grasp, 

And bounding pulse and throbbing heart, 

We did each other clasp. 

And not 'till each man then had felt 

His comrade's stalwart grip' 

And made three journeys round the deck 

Of that huge, stately ship, 

Would he believe he had not dream'd. 

And was thoroughly awake. 

And that he the dread phantom saw, 

As reality would take. 



68 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

XVII. 

The breezes blew and on we flew 

Three hours more, I ween, 

And leagues on leagues o'er seas we drew 

Beneath the starlight sheen, 

Then all at once the breeze died down 

And ocean ceased to flow, 

All in an utter calm we lay 

Beneath the starlight's glow. 

A silence dread as of the grave 

Lay on the floods around, 

Nor 'mongst the loosen'd sails was there 

An utter stir nor sound ; 

They hung in silence from the spars, 

Quiet as the glittering stars 

That beam'd o'er floods profound. 

A k)ng dread hour had pass'd 

And still becalmed we lay 

Not e'en a zephyr's faintest breath 

Did with the canvas play. 

Grave as a priest each seaman looked, 

And eyed his brother-man. 

For through each breast one only thought. 

One only feeling ran, 

The vision came to warn them all 

Of coming wreck and death — 

Each seaman prophesied with 

Beating heart and panting breath. 

Oh, it was a solemn scene, one, 

1 never shall forget — 

With parted lips, and ashen hue 

All o'er their features set — 

And trembling forms and glaring eyes 

They gazed around the deck, 



THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 69 

Stood fix'd in awe as if they saw 
Already death and wreck. 

XVIII. 

A thrill of music fill'd the air 
'Twas soft and sweet and low, 
Delicious dream-like harmonies 
As rising zephyrs blow — 
On sultr} eve o'er thymy fields 
Where the blown rose its fragrance yields 
Yiolets and lilies grow. 
O'er the waters rose the music, 
O'er the waters far away, 
Straight upon the ocean's face • 
The gaze of every seaman lay. 
The stars that o'er its silence beam'd 
Were mirror 'd everywhere, 
I watched a star that brighter seem'd 
Than all the others there. 
-And while I view'd the glowing beam 
'Neath the waters twinkling bright, 
A gloomy object o'er it pass'd 
And hid it from my sight. 
I looked on high to see if there 
A cloud or vapor sail'd in air, 
But all was clear and sheen, 
I looked upon the water's face, 
And still that object kept its place. 
That star no longer seen. 
And here the music died away 
With one loud joyous thrill, 
Yet o'er the mirror'd starbeam lay 
The gloomy object still. 

XIX. 

Down on the water's jDlacid breast 
The Life-boat swift we bore. 



70 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 

And soon five men, the ablest, best, 

That A^essel's crew could score. 

Brave men who aye with ready zest 

When dangers frown'd before — 

Straight forward to the peril press'd 

'Midst storm or ocean's roar, 

And flout at dangers that they test 

Though grimmest shapes they wore. 

We broke the ocean's grave like rest 

With splashing of the oar. 

On, on, with steady pull we row'd, 

A half a mile and more, 

And then a raft the ocean show'd 

Strown with dead, and stain 'd with gore. 

To the raft we moor'd the boat. 

And trod the corpse encvimber'd float, 

Where not a sound disturbed the air ; 

Oh, what a ghastly sight was there ! 

From end to end from side to side 

Of that huge raft so long and wide, 

Were nought but dead, with slaughter dyed. 

Children, men and woman, old and young, 

Were 'midst that pile of carnage flung. 

Cleft heads, cut throats and severed limbs» 

Were scattered thick and dread ; 

A horrid stench most foul and dense 

Upon the air was spread. 

Apart from the fiercest scene of all 

A murdered woman laj^, 

Still gleam 'd her eyes in death imclosed 

With pure bright starry ray. 

And fairer form and nobler face. 

More pearl-like teeth, I ween, 

Since first began the human race 

In mortal shape was seen. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 71 

To her cold-snowy, milkless breast 

A little babe she still caressed ; 

I stooped, and took the babe away 

From those cold, stiff arms that round it lay, 

But as I turned its face to me, 

The very likeness I did see — 

Of that same vision robed in light. 

That at the mast-head stood that night, 

Yes, there, there was the haggard face. 

There every feature I could trace 

The ghastly vision bore. 

But instead of snow-white robes 

Such as the phantom wore, 

This lifeless babe was wi-apped all round 

In clothing dark and warm, 

Such as an eight-year boy might wear, 

Enwrapped its tiny form. 

Close where the babe and mother lay ; 

A little boy we found, 

'Twas him who had his garments doff'd 

And wrapt that infant round. 

Yes, he had bared his tender form. 

To keep his little sister warm, 

And -midst the cold all naked lay 

As still and white and chill as clay 

And he was the sole living thing 

We from the ghastly float did bring 

Or on the raft could find, 

And all so pale he seem'd, and grim, 

So cold and stiff in form and limb, 

A corpse you would have fancied him, 

Not living human kind. 

XX. 

Day dawn'd upon the tranquil flood, 
Shone on that raft of death and blood. 



72 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 

That seeni'd to groan beneath the weight 

Of its all horrid, ghastly freight; 

Never a grimmer sight, I ween, 

On any battle-field was seen ; 

Nor 'midst ruins of a plundered town, 

Where king with hatred beaming frown, 

Heart ruthless as his iron crown, 

Had rain'd his fearful vengeance down ; 

Like him who's styled the scourge of God, 

Who d3^ed with blood the streams and sod, 

And swore, where once his charger trod, 

No vintage more should deck the clod. 

Yes, save that boy, and only him, 

That raft one sole material bore. 

And this was corpses gashed and grim. 

Yes, deep and horrid wounds they wore. 

Some were shorn of head and every limb. 

And thickly clothed with clotted gore. . 

One man of burly form we found. 

His matted gory beard and hair. 

So bushy did his face surround. 

They hid the savage features there. 

Upon the arm we read his name 

'Twas tattooed there in letters plain, 

Hugh De Vaux, on his breast the same 

Was visible in tattoo stain. 

Deep through his chest a dagger stood, 

The hilt yet in his grasp he held, 

Down through his breast, e'en in the wood 

Beneath, the blade he had impelled. 

'Twas him who had that slaughter piled. 

There pour'd out human blood like rain, 

Yes, butchered woman, man and child, 

And then himself had fiercely slain. 

For we 'mongst all that gory mass 



THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 73 

No other blade nor knife discerned, 
And this was how it came to pass 
From the boy in after time we learned. 

XXI. 

A vessel sail'd from England's shore, 
Known by the name of Labrador 
And full three hundred souls she bore, 
Bound for Australia's coast was she, 
But when far out on seas she came, 
While winds were blowing fresh and free, 
Some how the vessel caught on flame. 
To drown the blaze, vain was the toil, 
The flame did all their efforts foil. 
And broader still the fire grew, 
And from each hatch in fierce turmoil 
As though fiends did all their fury roil 
The waves of hissing fire flew ; 
For full a hundred casks of oil 
That illfated vessel bore ; 
Round these the flames had fix'd their coil, 
And fiercely grasped their willing spoil. 
From casks that there did burst and boil 
Flames rushed with one infernal roar. 
All, all the boats were launched in haste, 
And human freight in them was placed 
Fill'd, loaded down was every craft 
'Till to its edge the waters came. 
The rest found succor on the raft 
From the all devouring flame. 

XXII. 

Dense murky shades of night swept down 
Upon a restless sea, 
Through all that dark and dreary night 
The whistling winds blew free. 



74 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

When morning flashed upon the flood 

The winds no longer stirr'd, 

But no where o'er the silent seas 

The boats were seen or heard. 

Whether beneath the seas that night 

The mournful crews were lost, 

Or all alive and well upon 

Some unknown isle were toss'd — . 

It ne'er j^et came unto our ken, 

And never will, I ween, 

For since that time 'till now the years 

Have numbered seventeen. 

XXIII. 

For two long weeks that raft did ride 

At merc}^ of the floods and gale. 

But not once her starving crew espied 

A sign of land, nor ship, nor sail. 

By hunger terrible, extreme, 

Her crew were on the verge of death, 

Starvation in each eye did gleam. 

And came on every panting breath. 

The time arrived that lots were cast 

Amongst that haggard, frantic throng. 

To see who should make the dread repast, 

And ease the gnaws of hunger strong. 

A wretch there was amongst that crew. 

As base and foul and sordid soul, 

As yet a breath of life e'er drew. 

Or ever sank 'neath death's control. 

One whose brute feelings never rose 

To think of others joy or weal, 

No more pity there for human woes 

Thau's found within a bar of steel.. 

Beyond what his brute thoughts desired. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. lO 

And these were basest of the low, 
Nought else his filthy spirit fired, 
Nor slightest atom else could show. 
Nor in his abject nature grew, 
'Twas he who'd murdered all that crew — 
That there upon the raft Ave view'd, 
And their dead bodies hacked and hew'd, 
Pour"d out their crimson blood like rain. 
The raft all o'er with slaughter stain 'd, 
And when no victim more remain'd, 
In frantic mood himself had slain I 
'Twas him who had the awful deed 
Proposed of drawing lots for food, 
To see who in their dreadful need 
Should quell their comrades' hungry mood, 
And 'twas by him the lots were made, 
The papers torn, the names arrayed, 
The slips folded, press'd his teeth betwixt 
Then shaken in a pile and mix'd. 
While all mute the rest the deed surveyed, 
And stood with horrid awe transfixed. 
With ashen cheeks, and parted lips. 
And e^'-es that from their sockets strain'd, 
Each drew from the pile of folded slips. 
While o'er all an awful silence reign'd. 
With quivering forms and palsied hands. 
And features where terror stood confess 'd, 
Each with his strip of paper stands. 
Till each and all their slip had pressed. 
Then all at once they opened were 
By each poor wretch's quivering hand, 
On each slip was fixed his owner's stare, 
In awful silence each is scann'd, 
On his slip each one gazes there. 
As though he could not understand 



76 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

If he the awful fate should fare, 

And die to feed that hungry band, 

Or of the horrid doom were clear. 

On him, who the grisly deed had plann'd 

And eagerly did it prepare. 

Yes, made the lots with his own hand, 

It chanced the lot upon him fell, 

Doom'd him to be the dread repast, 

When this he saw with one fierce yell 

His dagger from its sheath he cast 

And grim as demon just from hell 

Rushed on the crew that stood aghast. 

And all of life that fiend bereft, 

Babe as well as man he did destroy, 

By him not one was living left 

But that poor noble hearted boy. 

Then like a dog the fiend began 

To feast on human flesh amain. 

And drink the warm blood as it ran 

From each quivering victim's vein. 

He like a fierce hyena tore 

And gnaw'd the flesh unto the bone, 

Glutted himself with brain and gore, 

Though he ne'er feast so choice had known. 

Then raging mad he went, blasphemed. 

And in convulsions foam'd forth blood, 

Roll'd, grinn'd, laughed, tore his hair and 

scream'd, 
Quaff 'd deep the ocean's briny flood. 
His knife from hand to hand he passed 
A while, then brandished it in both, 
Then in his breast the blade he cast. 
And died with one terrific oath. 
Good men and brave may be forgot. 
Oblivion hide their fame and worth, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 77 

E'en mighty kingdoms fall and rot 
Nor leave one vestige on the earth. 
But while on earth there breathes a man 
He'll hear of Hugh De Yaux's name, 
For no fiercer deeds since earth began 
Was "wrought by one of human frame. 

XXIV. 

Years have flown by on lightning wings, 

The boy to manhood came, 

And there he moves on yon rock below, 

Hunyadi is his name. 

The boy who doff'd his garments warm, 

And wrapped them round his sister's form, 

And lay down amidst the cold damp air, 

Nigh naked on his dismal lair, 

That little babe his only care. 

Though he could live until his years 

Should to a thousand run, 

A nobler deed he could not do 

Than what on the raft was done ; 

Nobler sacrifice he could not make 

Though all the world he won. 

When we found him 'midst the clotted gore 

Near frightened unto death, 

And frozen 'midst the bitter frore. 

While scarce a rag his body bore. 

All taken save the shirt he wore. 

And closely laid that infant o'er, 

To shield her from the night-frost hoar. 

And breezes icy breath ; 

Pierced to the core was every heart 

With love for that brave boy ; 

You should have seen the tears of pity start, 

Tears of pit}- mix'd with joy ; 



78 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

From every weather beaten man — 
And their sun-brown 'd cheek's bewet 
Who there the noble act did scan : 
I will ne'er the scene forget. 

XXV. 

Seventeen years have pass'd away 

Since that sad time 'till now, 

But stranger scene I never view'd, 

And never shall, I trow. 

And ne'er shall I forget the sight 

While life my heart doth warm — 

That at the mast-head stood that night 

That ghastly phantom's form. 

And never shall I cease to think 

That God that boy designs — 

For some great deed amongst mankind 

That in the future shines. 

His rescue was no work of chance, 

'Twas Grod performed the whole ; 

God bade the breezes blow that night 

And led me to the goal. 

That God made me His instrument, 

To carry out this strange event, 

Shall ever glad my soul. 

XXVI. 

Here Harold paused, and Ellenore 

Feigning a smile began. 

I've heard just such tale before. 

But say, was not this man 

That you say was Hugh De Yaux 

Who the raft with murder jailed 

Long accused of some other deed 

Of murder grim and wild? 

Ay, madam, Harold straight replied, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 79 

A bark once saiFd from Spain, 

With all the Lyol^-nns save one 

Who ne'er return 'd again. 

Some ten months from the time they sail'd 

The bark was found at sea, 

Without a living soul on board, 

All were dead as dead could be ; 

Nought but fleshless skeletons 

Which numbered twenty nine 

This gloomy floating coffin held 

When found upon the brine. 

Now it was known that thirty four 

Women and men had sail'd, 

What had become of the other five 

A mj^stery prevail 'd. 

But 'twas long thought — that the}' had died 

And in the sea been thrown. 

Nor was it 'till three years had past. 

The fearful truth was known. 

It chanced one time a murderer 

On the day that he was hung, 

To the jailor while in prison 

Unbridled thus his tongue. 

XXVII. 

Don't think I to the gallows go 

For one sole murder done. 

For I've been a murderer 

Ever since my life begun. 

Once in a bark from Spain I shipped 

To England she was bound, 

But, but the port for which she sail'd 

I ween, she never found. 

Hugh De Yaux was captain of the bark — 

A seaman tried was he, 



80 THE IIEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And I was steward for the voyage 

Across the bounding sea. 

On the third night from when we sail'd 

De Taux thus spoke to me. 

Ribero, with greater wealtli than this 

No ship was ever stored — 

And if you work a deed for me 

You shall have half the hoard. 

To-morrow when to lunch we go 

Just as the clock strikes ten, 

I'll tell all the Lyolynns 

And all their maids and men 

It is the anniversary 

Of the day that I was born, 

And bid them take a glass of wine 

To celebrate that morn. 

You know the wine that they like best, 

So take this package now — 

Mix its contents, a powder fine. 

And white as frost, I trow — 

"Within a dozen flasks of wine. 

And when the time arrives — 

Fix it so we all together drink. 

The men and all their wives. 

And mine as usual will be 

A brimming horn of gin. 

So see none of the fell poison gets 

That kind of liquor in. 

I did as our captain bid. 

Upon the time he fix'd — 

I gave to all a glass of wine 

With that fell poison mix'd. 

And every cup at once was raised 

To quaff that captain's health 

They wished him length of days, all crown 'd 



TRE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 81 

With peace and joy and wealth. 

Each cup was drained, some fillVl again, 

But ere an hour past, 

All, all in horrid agonies 

Had foaming hreathed their last. 

Yes, all within that bark lay dead 

Save Hugh De Vaux and I, 

And three more of the chosen men 

He had not doom'd to die. 

The golden hoard that was aboard 

The captain nobly shared 

He launched his gig and there he stored 

As much as king has heired. 

Now, hark, my men, the captain said, 

The best of friends must part. 

We must therefore do the same, 

I'll be the first to start. 

But one tale alike we all must tell 

So get your story perfect, well, 

And I will now the story frame ; 

All swear the vessel caught on flame, 

And when wrapped in fier}^ glow 

The Lyolynns themselves did stow. 

And all the wealth that they could show 

Within a boat and off they went, 

Upon the watery element, 

And never more by us were seen. 

And this will be believed, I ween. 

And then we five left the burning float. 

Saved our lives within a boat. 

None otherwise on earth will know 

Save us five, Avho in weal or woe, 

This tale must tell where e'er we go, 

Just as I've told 3"0u, tell it so. 

Now Ribero, these two men here 



82 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNX. 

Will go to help me row and steer. 

You, and that man I leave you there. 

Haste and get down another boat 

But ere you leave j'on ghastly float 

The drifting coffin set on fire 

So flames may hide her cargo dire. 

He said, ropes from the hark were veered. 

Then o'er the flood they swiftly steered, 

And soon he^'ond our sight appeared, 

Nor have I seen them since, nor heard 

Of their fates a single word. 

Soon we from the hark retired. 

But by us she was not fired. 

We left her floating on the seas — 

To mercy of the waves and breeze. 

Ten days within a boat we twain, 

Went drifting o'er the boundless main, 

Midst calm and shine and hurricane. 

Burnt with suns, drenched with spray and 

rain, 
Then, then the shore of Si:)ain we found. 
And landed here alive and sound. 
But all the hoard that we brought here 
Was spent and wasted ere a year ; 
To burglary again we turned, 
Men we slew, houses robb'd and burned. 
A year ago my friend was caught and tried. 
Convicted and on the gallows died. 
I then robb'd a man, cleft his head, 
And laid his home in embers red. 
In this last action I was caught. 
And to this cursed dungeon brought. 
Then tried was I, and doom'd at last 
To follow where my comrade past. 
So let them hang me when they will, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. g3 

I dread not all its pain and ill ; 
And happy as you find me here, 
You'll find me on the gallows there. 
I've hated man and hate him still, 
But of murder I have had my fill. 

XXVIII. 

'T was by this fierce fiend in human mold 
The tidings of that bark were told. 
The fates, save for this fiend alone— 
Of Lyolynns had ne'er been known : 
For De Vaux and the other two, 
Ne'er more the sight of land did view, 
They roam'd the seas a month and more, 
Then were found by the Labrador. 
In horrid plight as e'er before 
Men were found 'midst the billows' roar; 
The boat no sign of victuals bore, 
They'd eaten all their scanty store : 
And horrid hues their faces wore. 
Prom hunger keen and scurvy sore. 
And scarcely ere a week went round 
Died the two that with De Yaux were found ; 
And ere another week had pass'd, 
The Labrador in flames was cast, 
That reached from deck to topmost mast. 
Strewn in ashes o'er the waters vast. 
By boats and raft the crew were saved, 
From flames that o'er her rushed and raved, 
But all who there the perils braved. 
Were lifeless midst the waters laved, 
Save Hunyadi, and only he, 
And 'twas him who told this all to me. 

XXIX. 

While Harold told this sickening tale, 
From white to red, froni red to pale — 



8# THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Now white as foam, now red as gore, 

Alternate changed the face of Ellenore. 

One moment a lively hue it bore, 

The next a death-like pallor wore. 

And while he told his story grim, 

Not once she moved her eyes from him. 

Alas, she thought where e'er I range, 

Along this Avorld of ceaseless change. 

Whether midst perils I've been thrown, 

Or pleasures been around me strown, 

Since first Omar De Vaux I've known 

Or since he claim'd me as his own. 

Of some grim deed like this I've heard, 

In which him or his kin have stirr'd. 

It seems I ne'er shall hear the last 

Of horrors terrible and ghast, 

And murders horrible and vast. 

Through which he and his race have pass'd. 

And ever since his wife I've been. 

Nought, nought in him I've ever seen, 

But feelings dark and low and mean. 

And nought else I'll e'er see, I ween. 

Alas, alasl how oft for him, 

Have I been forced to lie and nim, 

And forced when e'er he's ta'en the whim — 

To aid him work some action grim. 

It makes my blood grow cold in every limb. 

And makes my senses reel and swim, 

Makes this poor vision dull and dim, 

As though huge tears did o'er it brim. 

When e'er amidst the gloomy past 

Memories their wanderings cast. 

And spectre-like as from the tomb 

All the past scenes around me loom ; 

Alas, alas 1 in grim review, 



THE HEIE OF LYOLYNN. }^ 

All, all past deeds rise up anew ! 
In awful retrospect they roll 
Through all the senses of my soul ! 
How oft upon my bended knee, 
On land as well as flowing sea, 
At eve and morn I've prayed to God, 
To turn him from the path he trod. 
To make religion light his soul, 
And burst the devil's fierce control — 
That's ever swayed his heart and mind. 
And kept him to the base inclined. 
Oft when he jslanu'd some action dread, 
My thoughts to God that instant sped, 
And long in secret I have prayed — 
My, husband from the deed be swayed. 
At midnight, while at my side he slept. 
Oft I have o'er him prayed and wept, 
Lean'd o'er the still slumbering breast, 
Of him, who all my love possess'd; 
Whose very shadow that he threw, 
I loved with passion wild and true. 
Beyond all else on earth I knew, 
Except the form from whence it grew. 
Him who I ever loved and bless^'d ; 
Him who had ruin'd all my rest ; 
Had crushed my brightest hopes to earth, 
And wrapt my soul in gloom and dearth ; 
Him who had taught mine eyes to weep 
Their scalding tears while he could sleep ; 
While I watched my slumbering lord, 
Whom I far more than God adored, 
I've wept and prayed, and prayed and wept 
Craved that he from every ill be kept, 
That God would turn his steps aright, 
And fill his soul with holy light, 



86 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

But tears and pra3'ers have all been vain, 
Although I poured them forth like rain, 
It's seem'd that God in mute disdain 
Has ever hurl'd them back again, 
As doth the rock the raging main 
Whose waters there no hold retain. 

XXX. 

Because this seaman sang last night, 
(As any other mortal might) 
A legend of the days of j^ore, 
That's known on every sea and shore, 
"Cause the name of Lyolynn was there, 
His souls been fiU'd with hate and fear 
For this poor sun-brown 'd seaman here, 
Who little dreams to me 'tis clear. 
He aught of hate or anguish stirr'd 
In those who there the legend heard. 
And Omar sends me here to see 
His grounds of fear well founded be. 
Whether this seaman knows at all 
On what he plans his rise or fall. 
But I can judge, and judge aright. 
This manJias not the least insight — 
To any thing that he has plann'd. 
Of cheating heirs of wealth and land, 
Nor does he dream at his right hand — 
The heir of Lyolynn doth stand. 
Nor does he dream to me 'tis clear — 
That Hugh De Taux's brother 's here. 
Nor doth he dream that Roger Lea, 
Doth dead Bibero's father be. 
And though he did as clear as day, 
I, I would not the news convey 
To Omar, nor to Boger Lea, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 8t 

For all the wealth in j^onder sea. 
Omar must cease his deeds of crime, 
Or lose me through all coming time. 
I'll not aid him now, nor ever more — 
To rob, nor shed one drop of gore ; 
For if he follows on his path 
He'll be o'er taken with God's wrath ; 
This seaman's murder he has j^lann'd. 
And deems I'll aid him heart and hand, 
But from crime he must wrench his heart. 
Or he and I for ever part. 
He'll find that those who love him true, 
Can learn to loathe and hate him too, 
Though they should ever mourn and rue 
The time they from his friendship drew. 
One word from me but noised abroad 
Would give him to the hangman's cord. 
But this shall never be, though fate 
Should turn ni}- love to deadl}' hate. 
No, no in me he'll ever find 
A heart to all his failing kind, 
And were they thousand fold more vast, 
I would adore him to the last ; 
And let him lead me all astray 
Though grimmest hell were on the way. 

XXXI. 

Oh! oh, that in some humble glen, 

Far from abodes of sinful men, 

A shepherd he'd been born and rear'd, 

And I his humble lot had shared. 

His cot however small, I ween 

To me a paradice had been : 

Content with him however poor, 

I would have toil'd o'er dale and moor, 



88 THE IIEIH OF LYOLYNN. 

And craved no greater bliss on earth, 

Than to have shared his woes and mirth, 

Yes, through all his peril, woe or pain, 

Though poured in never ending train, 

I had aye his corafeter remaind. 

And king he, o'er ni}^ heart had reign'd. 

Nor ought in^^ growing love restraind. 

Nor for me his love had ever waned. 

Yea, howe'er poor his lot in life — 

I had contented been his wife. 

Oh, God, look kindly from above 1 

I love, and who is he I love ? 

A murderer, a thief, a man, 

As fell as e'er since earth began — 

Has ever from the gallows swung. 

Or ever fiU'd the grave unhung 1 

And yet I love him, yes, I do. 

With love as warm and pure and true 

As ever glow'd in human breast. 

And fill'd it with a grand unrest. 

XXXII. 

Thank God ere on yon ship we came 
lie to John Snowden changed his name. 
And here upon these headlands lone, 
lie by no other name is known, 
Save to Bayard, me and Roger Lea, 
Who his proved friends and partners be, 
And Avho be ever at his beck. 
To rush to fortune or to wreck , 
And should e'er Lea, De Vaux undo, 
'Twould send him to the gallows too. 
In murder, burglary and crime. 
The twain have ever spent their time. 
Thus their whole lives have been employed 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 89 

But it was Lea who first decoyed 

My Omar on the road to crime, 

Ere he had grown to boyhood's prime. 

Yes, Lea all crimes to him had taught 

Ere Omar was to boyhood brouglit : 

Together crime on crime tliey wrought, 

For only after these they sought. 

Now one by other must be buoj'Vl, 

Or both are ruin'd and destro3-Vl. 

If e'er the laws should one undo, 

Shortly the other'll follow too. 

E'en this poor girl now standing there, 

Whom Lea says is of broad land the heir. 

Should hear but once De Vaux's name — 

Would blanch in horror at the same. 

Little she dreams her death is plann'd — 

Already parcelled is her land — 

To Omar and to Roger Lea, 

And the Mosmans, but who these be — 

What their race, title or degree, 

They keep a mystery to me. 

And this secrecy, I like it not, 

I used to be in every plot. 

In every scheme that e'er was plann'd, 

I always had an equal hand. 

But now to mj^ chagrin, surprise 

The^' keep a something in cliguise, 

And I cannot in the least devise. 

Why aught is hidden from mine eyes. 

But let them scheme and plot and plan, 

And secret keep it if they can, 

I'll only closer watch each man, 

And keener all their deeds will scan. 

Though their wild schemes in bulk should 
stand — 



00 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Huge as the mountains of the land, 

I, yet as through the clearest glass, 

And free as winds that stir the grass, 

Penetrate and see through all the mass, 

Though cased all o'er with folds of brass. 

And never shall it come to pass — 

That this poor child now standing here, 

Shall fall in any ti-ap nor snare — 

That either of those fiends jarepare, 

I'll make this orphan my sole care. 

And if 'tis true to wealth she's heir, 

As I have heard old Lea declare. 

If I chance now to he her friend. 

If e'er 'neath want and woe I bend. 

She to me helping hand will lend, 

To all my sorrows, needs, attend. 

This rosy maiden I shall woo. 

And I'll teach her to love me too. 

For as adown this world we range — 

Men grow fickle, false, often change, 

And Omar has of late been strange. 

He wriggled like a dog with mange — 

When Koger spoke of Mosman's grange ! 

A week ago just j^esternight, 

I saw his cheeks turn'd deathly white 

And tremor pass through all his frame, 

When Roger named some maiden's name. 

Who did within that grange reside 

Who was shortly to become a bride. 

Some lovely maiden rich and young; 

But, said old Roger in a tongue, 

They thought I did not understand, 

She is yours my boy both heart and hand. 

She told me but a month ago 

She'd love you through all weal and woe. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 91 

And though forced against her mind 
By parents selfish, harsh, unkind, 
To wed with one she could not love 
Omar should be prized him far above. 
At this he grasped old Roger's hand, 
And whispered words in accent bland, 
But his speech I did not understand, 
'Twas in the tongue of some strange land. 
But still to him my loves remain 
Bound with an adamantine chain, 
If Omar dare to break its link, 
I care not if we swim or sink. 
If Omar's love doth stronger be 
For some other one than for me, 
The fearful truth I fain would know, 
Although I died, beneath the blow. 

xxxm. 

Through Ellenore these feelings ran, 

Whilest listening to that brawny man, 

And when the cloak he round her threw, 

Unto lanthe close she drew — 

And also wrapped the child-like form — 

With hers within the garment warm : 

For chilly was the morning air. 

That lay around those headlands there. 

The child's face she kiss'd again, again, 

When theseaman ceased his mournfulstrain. 

Awhile they stood without a word. 

Not e'en a whisper 'mongst them stirr'd, 

For on the sea all eyes were cast. 

To watch amidst its waters vast — 

That sail which they had seen before, 

Still drawing closer to the shore. 

It chanced the silence soon was broke, 



92 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And it was Ellenore who spoke, 

Her voice was soft and sweet and clear, 

As though 'twas angel speaking there. 

From theme to theme she lightly pass'd, 

While in his speech the seaman cast, 

And oft the heir of Lyolynn 

Would now and then a word put in. 

They talked as though they three had been 

Old tried friends for many a 3^ear, 

Who had not for months each other seen — 

Which made their meeting doubly dear. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 93 



PART III. 



By this the sun had moiinted high, 
And clothed with light the sea and sky ; 
The red glow the horizon bore — 
Had gone like things that are no more, 
A sober light all nature wore, 
The sea, the sky and barren shore. 
And the chill morning's rising breeze 
Rippled afar the boundless seas. 
Marked o'er with streaks of snowy foam, 
Stretched the dread leviathan's home, 
Whose solemn never ending voice, 
Seem'd with its monsters to rejoice. 
For, far and wide all o'er its face. 
Grim might}^ monsters they could trace. 
That in air at times their forms disclose. 
Then swiftly plunge to whence they rose. 
Those seas whose never ending face, 
Seem'd the whole heavens to embrace, 
And laugh as there it view'd its race — 
Upon the emptiness of space. 
Those seas across whose boundless clime 
Thei'e rests no wear of fleeting time. 
Nor marks of age, nor grim decay. 
As in all else 'neath natui-e's sway ; 
Those seas which aye in calm or storm 
How e'er they stretch their awful form, 



'94 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Fill the beholder's soul with awe. 

If it is ruled by nature' s law, 

And he believes there is a God, 

Omnipotent, beneath whose nod — 

Or in whose all conceiving mind, 

The universe was all designed 

Or working of whose plastic hand — 

This world wasfashion'd made and plann'd, 

And all those starry worlds around — 

That through all endless space abound, 

Who made yon sun and its bright beam 

That makes this world with vintage teem- 

Gave to it the solvent power 

To raise mists and bring the shower, 

Scatter life to grass and flower. 

Which trees with seeming joy devour. 

I sa3^, to one of human race, 

In whose soul such belief has place, 

Who as he looks o'er nature's face, 

Can everywhere its maker trace. 

Not think as he views the vast expanse, 

That every thing has sprung from chance. 

Let him go gaze on ocean's breast, 

In its bright calm or wild unrest, 

He'll trace upon its awful brow 

The workings of a God, I trow. 

See everywhere his eye shall rest, 

The majesty of God express 'd. 

See it written there in letters grand 

That God it foshioned, made and plann'd. 

And he who can the scene behold. 

Think from the hands of chance it roll'd, 

What form'd him ere it reached its mold, 

Must have become diseased and cold. 

If such a one there really be, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. Oo 

111 hviman guise on land or sea, 

Or 'ueatli yon bright o'er arching sky — 

Amongst us mortals born to die. 

I would that such a one were here, 

And I his gloomy soul could cheer, 

Dispell the clouds that wrap his mind, 

And keep him to his Maker blind ; 

Pour in a ray of glowing light, 

Where all was idiotic night : 

The work of God I'd make him trace 

O'er all 3^on ocean's boundless face; 

II. 

Thus to himself Hunyadi thought, 
As his vision the glories caught, 
That morn to sk}^ and ocean brought, 
And all the world with splendor fraught ; 
Scenes that were there before him wrought, 
Show'd him plainer God than language 

taught. 
He watched 'till he saw the splendors fade, 
One by one in paler light arrayed, 

For sublimer scene he ne'er surveyed 

Than what that glowing morning made. 
Nor from his reverie he woke — 
'Till Omar close beside him spoke ; 
'Twas to Roger Lea, Omar spake. 
Of him no heed they seem'd to take, 
In fact a rock rose up between, 
Perhaps by them he was not seen. 
And even if they had him spied. 
Or he been standing at her side, 
I doubt if they had stayed their speech. 

For that bard was deem'd by all and each 

Who in that fated vessel sail'd. 



90 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

To be a man vrhose senses fail'cl — 

To beecl what ever round him pass'd, 

Who ever in a dream seem'd cast. 

Who to all things on earth was lost, 

Save dreams in which he a^-e was toss'd. 

But Omar deem'd the bard as one — 

Whose wit and senses all were gone ; 

Considered him a worthless oaf, 

Who knew nought but to drink and loaf, 

With brain as dull and little good 

As yet in human skull e'er stood. 

As void of wit as block of wood, 

Or any Avoman's greasy hood, 

A fool all void of common sense, 

In whom there was not the least pretense 

To aught of politeness nor offense ; 

In whom he could no wish divine, 

But to be ever drunk with wine. 

Little he dream'd that sleepy bard. 

Was ever on his watch and guard, 

To catch each syllable that fell 

From his own lips and Lea's as well ; 

Knew of their past deeds foul as hell. 

And all about their lives could tell ; 

Had watched their every sign and beck. 

Long ere yon vessel went to wreck. 

And only waited for the time, 

To crush them with their acts of crime. 

See them to utter ruin hurl'd, 

Their beings rooted from the world. 

Yes, he whose keen poetic eye — 

And feeling pure, sublime and high, 

That soar'd far such mankind above, 

Their trails of musing, hate and love. 

Who could for hours sit and gaze, 



THH HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 97 

Upon the inorning''s faintest rays ; 

The brightest or the palest tints, 

Aurora o'er the heavens prints. 

Or view the smallest thing that breathed, 

That ever j^et with life was wreathed, 

Or 3'et the mind of God conceived, 

And that God made it so believed : 

And as its structure he explored, 

Yea, every atom in it stored. 

Saw there the work of that high lord — 

Whom his soul worshiped and adored. 

Yes, he who could the seas explore. 

Midst brightest calm or wildest roar. 

And see where e'er his eye could rest 

The majest}^ of God confest ; 

Yea, view all nature's meanest, best, 

With adoration in his breast. 

Who could the tide of song send forth. 

Strong as the tempest of the north, 

Freight it with love and passions warm. 

Keen as the lightning of the storm, 

With sublime figures make it swarm, 

All perfect limned from nature's form : 

Could also listen to the speech. 

When e'er it came within his reach 

Of men like these, and unto each 

A lasting, awful lesson teach, 

When came his chances to impeach. 

And all their schemes to atoms dash, 

Make quail like hounds beneath the lash, 

Or like writhing adders when thej- feel 

The stalwart plowman's crushing heel. 

But all immindful lest he hear. 

Soon fell their words upon his ear. 

Among the sti'copses round them strown, 



98 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

That Traves upon the rocks had thrown, 
Seeking- for those that they 'had known, 
To the bard's eye the twain were shown. 
For when the tide was very low, 
As such the morning chanced to show. 
And ocean lay as still as death, 
Not ruffled by the tempest's breath, 
Along that headland's rocky base, 
With boulders scattered o'er its face 
Was seen a broad and level space, 
Where corpse could find a resting place, 
O'er whose surface, when the tides are high, 
Near fathom deep of waters lie. 
Here with a boulder just between, 
Which form'd so dense and high a screen, 
He could not by those twain be seen, 
Still as if he a corpse had been. 
Or as if he sound sleeping were, 
Amongst those bloated corpses there, 
With ear intent and eye awake. 
He caught these words as Omar spake. 
He just an old man's corpse had found, 
For which they had searched those rocks 

around, 
It was the lord of L3'olynn, 
The last of all his race and kin, 
And whose death straiglit John Lockhart 

reared. 
Sole heir to land that he had heired. 
But who too, now was also cast. 
Amongst those corpses grim and ghast. 
Which left lanthe, his sole child 
Heir to those broad lands with castles piled. 
When Omar the dead body found, 
Its face was resting on the ground. 



THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 99 

Swilt with his foot the corpse he spurned, 
And on its back the body turned. 
With foot still on old Lyolj^nn, 
Thus spake he with a savage grin. 

III. 

By heavens, Roger I have cast 

Mine eyes upon the goal at last, 

Sure enough I've found him now, 

Come, look upon his lifeless brow, 

He'll no more search for us, I vow. 

Nor offer huge rewards, I trow — 

For the arrest of you and I, 

Because we lit the midnight sky 

With his old castle by the shore 

And robb'd it of its golden store. 

In faith he was a surly boor, 

As ever moved on dale and moor. 

With scarce the wit if he'd been poor, 

To find the way to alms-house door. 

I'll give him now a kick or two, 

For what he's done to me and you ; 

I wish in life we had been thrown 

Together in some valley lone, 

I would have mashed him every bone. 

And left him lifeless as a stone. 

Damn him, I loathed him while he lived 

And would his shredded form have sieved 

Through meshes fine enough for flour, 

If we had been alone an hour : 

And I hate him now he's dead, 

And ever from my pathway sped ; 

I gladly on his carcass tread, 

And kick him on the face and head 

'Tis a good thing for me and you, 

L.ofC. 



100 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

That neither one of iis he knew, 

Except by name and noted fame, 

Or else when on yon ship we came — 

He might have had us fix'd amain 

With ball and lock and clanking chain, 

A.nd put us to no little pain — 

To have freed ourselves again. 

Death is a noble thing indeed, 

When by him we see we are freed 

Of those who did not love us well, 

And would have sent us to a cell, 

Or made us risk both life and limb — 

Upon the gallows tall and grim. 

Oh, I ne'er thought that I should live — 

To deal such kicks as now I give 1 

To kick him, I cannot refrain, 

I feel life kicking out his brain. 

Like kicking him again, again. 

And only wish I gave him pain. 

As Omar speaks, he kicks the head — 

And all the body of the dead. 

Drives on the pale still brow his heel, 

That brow that stirs not, cannot feel. 

Treads on the lifeless form and limb, 

Ot one who never injured him. 

One whose castle he had robb'd and burn'd, 

Yea, to a pile of ashes turn'd, 

But who had forgiven long ago — 

This action of his unknown foe. 

For never words had passed between 

Lyolynn and this brute obscene. 

Who such fell hate to him had shown, 

To Lyolynn 'twas never known ; 

And though the law had sought him long 

Whose hand had done the grievious wrong, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 101 

The felou it had captured not, 
And Lyolynn the wrong forgot. 
But still with heart as hard as steel, 
Upon the brow that cannot feel, 
Fell Omar drove his iron heel, 
While thus he did his thought reveal. 

IV. 

Roger, now that this man is dead, 
And Lockhart his existence shed, 
The next chief heir that now remains, 
To what to Lyolynn pertains, — 
Is lanthe Lockhart, the child 
We have here with us on the wild. 
Imagine, what an easy thing 'twould be 
To hurl her lifeless in this sea. 
In fact three or four times of late"^ 
I've felt like making her that fate. 
For if she were dead, you must know 
No others in the world could show 
The faintest shadow of a claim 
Like could my kin George Mosman frame, 
Yes, yes, if she were dead, I ween. 
There would not be an heir between 
And George could straight his right make 

plain — 
To all the Lyolynn domain. 
Here on his speech old Lea broke in, 
Omar, although you be his kin, 
As true as fish e'er had a fin, 
Or Saturn urges man to sin, 
It would to you not profit win, 
If George should heir all Lyolynn. 
No not a dime to you he'd give, 
So better lei j^on infant live. 



103 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

I know too well yonr kinsman George, 

He can lie, sneak, cheat, steal and forge, 

Better, I ween, than you or I, 

"Who're in that business schooled so high I 

I'd sooner trust an open sieve, 

To hold drink on which I had to live, 

Yea, more reliance to it give — 

Thau think he a single dime would share 

With you, though it was proven clear 

He did through you those castles heir : 

And he knew it 'twas by your hand — 

He heir became unto the land. 

Yes, and if his power and might 

Was carried to so grand a height, 

I tell you true as white is white — 

He'd not have you in his sight. 

And if you much about him clung — 

He'd have j^ou either jailed or hung. 

A harder heart and harsher soul 

No human form did e'er control, 

If you on gallows found your goal, 

You need not e'er your heart cajole, 

He'd in the least with 3'ou condole. 

To save 3'ou, not a straw he'd roll. 

Nor dime to your relief he'd troll, 

No man living from pole to pole — 

That ever ate, or quaff'd from bowl 

Would hang you with a look more droll. 

Far better make that child a friend, 

And teach her how to give and lend ; 

Tree will grow as the twig we bend. 

And only will tlie arrow wend — 

Upon the course the bow doth send. 

If we to her little wants attend — 

And ever treat her mild and kind, 



THE HKIR OF LYOLYNN. 103 

We shall win her heart, soul and mind. 
In her, I promise, we shall find — 
One to our wishes aye inclined — 
Let our actions he unto the child 
Ever the mildest of the mild. 
Sweets have hundred fold the power 
Flies to catch, than what is sour. 
Let us to her through ease or toil, 
Be sweet as hone}', soft as oil, 
And never e'er her anger roil, 
But win her love and win her spoil. 
Yea, let's make the child our friend, 
And teach her how to give and lend, 
Now Omar to my words attend, 
They'll be the wisest in the end. 



You told me, Omar quick replied. 
When last you did with George abide, 
He ever spoke right kind of me. 
And would all glad his kinsman see. 
And that my Alice swore to j'ou — 
Her love for me should a^-e be true. 
And though b}' parents' harsh decree — 
She was aye severed wide from me, 
And though she should another wed, 
Her first, last love she ne'er would shed. 
And bitterly to 3'ou complain 'd — 
How her stern parent me disdain'd. 
Though to another she be bound 
With links as strong as e'er were found 
In any anchor's clanking chain, 
Her heart will still with me remain. 
That she would sooner be my bride 
Than own the whole creation wide ? 



104 THE HKIR OF LYOLYNN, 

Now Lea, no matter what betide, 

The facts you must not from me hide, 

Give me the truth, I will not chide, 

Spake you the truth, or have 3-ou lied ? 

The while he spake his eagle e^'e 

Did full upon old Roger lie : 

But in the man's clean shaven face, 

Not least emotion could he trace ; 

His chin pale lips were tightly closed — 

Calm o'er his toothless mouth reposed. 

The same pale hue his visage wore — 

That through all weal or woe it bore. 

And in his eye that Omar's met, 

Full there its gaze unceasing set, 

There lurked no sign of hate nor love. 

Like his huge hoary brows above 

Whose growth his forehead all absoi-bs. 

Whose shagging folds half hid his orbs. 

His eyes were just as void of fire. 

Of fear or hope or 3'et of ire. 

O'er Omar's face the bushy hair — 

So luxuriant flourished there, 

So thick it lay o'er cheeks and lips 

And did all trace of mouth eclipse. 

It all obscured from Roger's stare 

A visage rigid with despair. 

But on the tip of his huge nose 

Where aye a florid color rose 

A death-like pallor there disclosed 

As though 'twas snow-ball there reposed. 

His sable beard that round it grew 

Gave it perhaps this milk-white hue. 

But in his eyes that flashed and glowed. 

And black as brows that o'er them flowed, 

And swelling of his bosom bare, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 105 

It only wore a growth of hair, 

Old Roger's sluggish eyes could scan — 

The secret feelings of the man. 

And putting on a smile most grim, 

He quickly thus replied to him. 

VI. 

A war-horse must not chafe nor fret, 

Nor in the least excitement get — % 

If he would bear his rider through 

And let him win the glory due ; 

He must not prance at sound of fife 

That only tells of coming strife, 

But all unheeding let it bray. 

And save his vigor for the fraj^ : 

"When meet the host in grim array 

And round him flies the blood}' spray, 

"When swords and bullets round him play, 

And dust to midnight turns the day, 

And wild and horrid grows his way, 

"When all around is wild dismay, 

Then let him forth his vigor lay, 

No need to hold it then at hay. 

Then is the proper place and time 

To show his powers all sublime. 

And Omar, I'm the battle-steed 

That bears 3'ou to each gallant deed. 

And never will I chafe and fret — 

'Till hosts have in the battle met. 

And when the proper time comes round 

Youll find my mind and muscle sound, 

You'll see, I always have the vim, 

To carry out what e'er I whim ; 

Nor am I driven from my stance 

No matter how the foes advance. 



lOG THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

You'll see, that I can ply my glave, 
As well as any mortal knave, 
Or 3'et, the bravest of the brave. 
What I told you, yea, every word, 
Is what I saw, and what I heard. 
But leave your business all to me, 
And I will make the Mosmans see, 
_ You're the fittest man that tliey can find 
In wedlock with that maid to bind. 
I told them so when 1 was there. 
And of this fact they're all aware. 
But for a while your feelings tame, 
And wait 'till you shall see your flame. 
Enough of this my boy 'till then : 
In the meanwhile let's act like men : 
Just always do as I propose, 
With us it has gone well 'till now. 
And so you'll find at the close — 
By all the deathless saints, I vow. 
But we came here to see if there 
Where any papers to be found, 
And not to talk of maidens fair. 
Like youths whose minds are hardly sound. 
Instead of kicking this old lout, 
Waste no more time but search his clothes. 
Tutu all his pockets inside out. 
In them some prizes may repose. 
An easy task to do it now. 
He'd scarcely let us if alive, 
For when he got mix'd in a row, 
He could like the very devil strive. 
'Twas once upon a time, and I 
Remember very well the day, 
I saw nine of my comrades fly 
All knocked and bruised by him in fray 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 107 

'Twas thus it happened ; in those days 

I used to preach the gospel truths, 

In market-houses and high-ways, — 

To women and to idle youths. 

In fact to all both great and small 

I forth my views of gospel flung ; 

I had a fluent flow of tongue. 

And often round vast crowds were found, 

Of rich and poor both old and young, 

I had a dozen men and more. 

Who could pick pockets o'er and o'er, 

And never let their victim feel — 

The hand that did their wallets steal. 

Men very skillful in this way, 

They always robb'd while I did pray. 

And always when I'd sung three psalms 

I'd beg the crowd around for alms, 

Then swift their purses forth they drew, 

And unto me some trifle threw : 

E'en little boj'S to me would foin. 

Their precious mites of shining coin. 

Then watched my men with eyes intent — • 

In which pockets back the j^urses went, 

They alwa3S took a keen survey', 

And knew just where the purses lay. 

After this was done, I'd shout and sing, 

And forth my gospel theories fling. 

Unto my lips the foam I'd bring. 

And up and down I'd fall and spring, 

And while these crowds around me stood — • 

To hear my theories sound and good — • 

Gaping at me with looks aghast. 

My men their clothes were searching fast, 

If they had aught away it pass'd, 

And soon amidst m}^ hoard was cast. 



108 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Well this old gentleman one da}', 

Stood listening to me preach and pray, 

And I think, Moses was my text, 

How he got with the people vext, 

And dashed his rod against a roclv. 

And straight for all his tliirsty floclc 

The waters gushed beneath the shock, 

Yea, did their hidden i^prings unlock. 

It happened this old mortal then, 

Began with me to shout, amen. 

And scarcely had it cleared his throat. 

Ere from the pocket of his coat 

His wallet had been plucked away, 

It chanced he did the act survey. 

And felt the hand about him stray. 

And straight his mighty anger rose. 

And he began to deal his blows ; 

Swift off he threw his coat and hat, 

And knocked nine of my colleagues flat. 

Down from my pulpit swift I ran, 

And beggVl his mercy for each man. 

I being man of gospel truths. 

For me he spared the erring youths. 

He made me go with him that day — 

A game or two at quoits to plaj' ; 

But he could hurl the largest coit — 

Further than I could cast a doit. 

And each throw ring the hub adroit. 

But ere had past that merry day, 

I drank him drunk, stole his purse away. 

I fled his neighbourhood that night, 

A decade of 3'ears had ta'en their flight 

Erp I again came in his sight, 

But me he had forgotten quite. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLTNN. 109 

vir. 

While thus they spoke, the}' searched the 

dead, 
Turn'd all his clothes from heel to head, 
On the gray corpse they found some coin, 
Which they did with a laugh purloin, 
As Omar 'gan the spoil disjoin 
Lea thus commenced to frown and groin. 
If thus grudgingly m^' share you dole, 
You had better take and keep the whole. 
Two thirds at least should be m}' share, 
Give me this, then will we be square, 
For if you remember aright, 
I did not get a single mite — 
Out of the i^ile that Bayard stole 
From our captain on the night. 
Before 3'on vessel found its goal. 
Poor devil he seem'd to take it hard, 
Grieved o'er the loss both day and night. 
His eyes grew red as any sard 
When held between you and the light. 
He brought me into his saloon, 
Dealt me some purest juice of grape, 
We drank, he fell to weeping soon. 
Like some young widow wrapt in crape 
Who just had lost her darling mate, 
Left in the world without a dime ; 
I watched him weep and heard his prate. 
But felt like laughing all the time. 
Nigh every one that was on board 
Except 3'our august self and me, 
He thought had robb'd him of his hoard ; 
But said he, I do swear friend Lea, 
Long ere we quit the open sea, 
There must a thorough searching be ; 



110 THE HEIR or LYOLYNN. 

I swear I will not lose it so — 

Though I make all aboard my foe. 

Captain, I said with ready wit, 

I know just where the nail to hit, 

Captain if I aright divine, 

The scamp that caused this loss of thine 

To find will not be very hard. 

For I believe it is the bard. 

Just at these words he grasped my wrist, 

And on the table thumped his fist. 

You're right my friend, I'll have him 

searched, 
If it be i^roven on the bard. 
Three whole long days shall he be pearched 
For mark of scorn on topmost yard, 
But much more prate of this same kind 
Between me and the captain pass'd, 
When I left his saloon, his mind 
Far less with grief was over cast. 
One bent had all my talk with him. 
That was, to keep him in the dark ; 
Though you never, you rascal trim. 
Did of the deed to me remark, 
I knew full well soon as I heard — • 
The captain had been largely robb'd, 
'Twas you or Bayard it had stirr'd, 
And for you both my bosom throbb'd. 
You need not blush, come tell me now, 
No use the truth from me to hide, 
His wallet was well fill'd, I trow. 
Or else to me has Bayard lied. 

viir, 

'Twas pretty good, Omar replied, 
But nothing extra after all, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 11 ; 

The night that old Peddler died, 

Bid greater sjDoil to us befall. 

Him we killed 'gainst the tower's quoin , 

A year ago last Christmas eve, 

Yes, he had far more notes and coin, 

You need not laugh, I don't deceive; 

And that from you I would purloin, 

You need not now, nor e'er believe. 

I meant that spoil with ^'ou to share, 

But have not had a chance as yet, 

I would with you divide it here, 

For you square half of it shall get. 

But I left it r.U with Ellenore, 

'Tis safely mongst her garments sewn, — 

Soon as we leave this barren shore, 

Then 3'ou one half of it shall own. 

But what we on this corpse have found, 

You shall be welcome to it all, 

For if we search these bodies round 

Far greater spoil to us will fall. 

IX. 

He said and into Roger's hold 

Were poured the coins of shining gold ; 

The old man's wrinkled face the while 

Show'd neither trace of frown nor smile. 

But, all so tightly did he grasp, 

The coin within his bony clasp, 

So long he held it, and so fast 

His fingei's round the spoil were cast, 

The old man's griping, bony clasp 

Grew rigid as an iron hasp ; 

When to his pocket he conveyed 

The hand in which the specie laid, 

He could not then unclasp his hold. 



112 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

His hand seem'd palsied, dead and cold, 
Nor till Omar long had chafed the hand, 
Would it ope nor shut to Lea's command. 



Who's this old man that here we find ? 

This abject wretch of human kind? 

So mean of soul, so base in mind. 

To every virtue lost and blind? 

And though full four score years and ten, 

Is more active than far younger men ? 

Full five and fifty j^ears ago, 

A certain city then could show, 

A 3"outhful lawyer of renown, 

Nor lawyer ever won a crown 

Of higher nor of grander fame, 

The rich, the poor, the halt, the lame, 

The ruffians with the burly frame. 

Whom no stern laws could quell nor tame 

Nor for their grim marauding shame 

All, all his clients straight became. 

And never for their weal and good, 

A wiser on the forum stood : 

No matter how forlorn their cause. 

He always cleared them of the laws. 

By trickery, magical, sublime, 

And wit that was his at all time, 

No matter what his client's crime — 

He made them innocent a^^pear, 

And of the law he brought them clear. 

Though they had robb'd, or blood had spilt 

He always proved them void of guilt. 

All witnesses against his side, 

He so strange with cross-questions plied, 

So their memories racked and tried. 



THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 1 1 !} 

And scattered so their senses wide, 
And what they said so oft denied, 
Both judge and jury thought they lied. 
All languages that e'er were known 
He spake as fluent as his own. 
And readily could plead the case 
Of any creed or hue or race. 
In civil suits well as those of crime, 
He was successful at all time. 
If maiden thought herself agrieved. 
And by some fickle youth deceived, 
Though him she only once had seen, 
And scarcely word had passed between, 
To William Stewart straight she came, 
For Lea had there assumed that name, 
And her case by him was ably wrought. 
And suit for breach of promise brought. 
And ere the case to trial went 
To marry was the youth content. 
Or else he won her ample hoard. 
Did well her slighted love reward, 
Made him who proffered love disdain'd, 
Pay well for pangs her heart sustained. 
And if some sly old tricky crone. 
Who vainly on some wealthy drone. 
Had her bewithing glances thrown. 
Whose hoards she sought to make her own; 
To William Stewart she applied. 
And soon her case by him was tried. 
He won her wealth what e'er befell. 
And though defendants pleaded well. 

XI. 

Around his office on the wall, 

Were seen where e'er the eye may fall 



114 THE HEIR OF LYOLTNN. 

Maxims like ttiese firm posted there, 

Written in letters bold and clear. 

Remember, truth is a gem of light, 

That gives the weakest power and might, 

So stick to it both da}^ and night ; 

Don't covet other's wealth nor fame ; 

Respect the old and halt and lame ; 

Be aye content with what 3'ou own ; 

Ne'er 'gainst another cast a stone , 

Live so that through all coming time 

Your name shall be exempt from crime. 

And be to every race and clime — 

A light on virtue's cliffs sublime : 

And men your character will take 

As an example for glory's sake. 

Sjjeaking harsh words I deem a crime, 

They are like hail in summer time. 

That crushing fall on plant and flower. 

Making wounds no shine nor shower — 

Can ever wholly heal again, 

So ever from harsh words refrain. 

Kind words will quell the fiercest wrath, 

And lead the lost to virtue's path. 

One di'op of oil in anger's hour 

Is worth whole hogsheads of what's sour. 

Lawyers should be like knights of old. 

Champions courteous, brave and bold, 

And ready aye themselves should hold — 

To shield the weak, the halt and old. 

Be ready aye in armor drest 

Day and night to place their spears in rest, 

And do their noblest and their best — 

For those who wrongl}' are oppress 'd. 

Yirtue's the only road to God, 

So let no other path be trod ; 



THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 115 

Deal ever so with foe and friend, 
That both shall love you in the end ; 
Do to mankind where e'er thou be, 
As thou wouldst have them do to thee : 
Keep thy soul pure, thy conscience clear, 
So if men could it see and hear, 
They nothing there could hear nor scan 
That thou wouldst blush 'twas known to 

man. 
Pity the needy and the poor, 
N'or turn them hungry' from your door. 
In secret be 3'our God adored. 
Nor wear your phylacteries too broad ; 
Ne'er seek a strife by day or night, 
But when in bravely show thy might ; 
Nor ever dream of fear nor flight, 
Press on and nobly win the fight. 
Clear conscience makes us strong of limb; 
Fear and love God — and only Him. 

XII. 

These I've cull'd at random from his wall, 

'Twould take a huge book to hold them all. 

It seem'd he all his maxims kept, 

Ne'er from their sphere of meaning stept. 

For all who ever dealt with him — 

Declared he was a christian trim. 

Ne'er was he known to do a wrong 

To any of the human thi'ong, 

Nor keep what to client did belong. 

In church he ever took his place — 

Devotion limned upon his face, 

Their preacher who was old and stout, 

And suffered very much with gout ; 

"When he could not from bed get out, 



116- THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Stewart would straight the pulpit tread — 
And preach salvation in his stead, 
And those who heard him preach declared, 
His sermons better far appeared — 
And to sublimer doctrines reached — 
Than those their good old pastor preached ; 
His sentences far higher pitched. 
Together better grooved and niched. 
A pure, deep pathos in his voice. 
That made the listener's soul rejoice. 
That made all his words sublimel}^ roll 
Deep through the chambers of the soul. 

XIII, 

In that city ten years he dwelt, 
And every one who with him had dealt 
For him a lasting friendship felt ; 
The confidence of all he won. 
Both father, mother, daughter, son. 
All the wealthy and the poor. 
Gladly hail him at their door. 
Bade him with a fervent zest — 
Enter there a welcome guest. 

XIV. 

Posts of honor, wealth and power, 
Fast his friends on him did shower,, 
Vast wealth was poured to him amain, 
It flowed in never ending train, 
Thousands on him their moneys press'd, 
For him to barter and invest. 
Just as his judgment deem'd it best. 
And there they left their moneys rest. 
Then vast estates he bought and sold. 
Made new the deeds of castles old ; 
Lauds he bought cheap and mortgaged high; 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 117 

Was ever on the sell and buy, 

With all who would thus their fortune try. 

A hundred miles or more away 

From his adopted city lay — 

A mighty tract of reedy bog 

Which most all time was wrapt in fog. 

Though high the winds and bright the day, 

The mists would some where o'er it lay. 

This he bought, had it all surveyed, 

But knowledge of the price he paid 

Never to any one was told, 

Save to him and those who had sold — 

The real figures in the dark were kept 

And never from their hiding leapt. 

But shortl}' it was noised around,, 

The bog did rich with ores abound 

Xot often in the county found, 

And Stewart had his fortune crown'd — 

Amass'd it unto millions grand 

By buying up that boggy land. 

But the vast treasures of that ground, 

Have never to this day been found. 

And nought there will be found, I ween. 

Save reeds, and waters stagnant, green. 

Soon on this mighty tract of fen — 

Yast mortgages did Stewart pen, 

And these his friends by thousands boughtj 

All wildly for his bonds they sought, 

For all firm faith in him had cast, 

And it stood unshaken to the last. 

To all his many dupes he told. 

These mortgages he simply sold, 

To place capital in his hold, 

And might to him the means afford, 

Of working out the mighty hoard, 



118 THE HEIS, OF LTOLYNN. 

That he had chanced to find was stored — 
All throughout those march-lands broad 
Soon far and wide his bonds he sold 
And to him piles of treasure roll'd 

XV. 

About this time a cot he bought, 
That was all neat and humbly wrought, 
That was with vine and ivy crown'd ; 
It stood a mile from city's bound. 
Nigh it was no other building seen 
For least five hundred j^ards, I ween. 
To this the loved of mortals moved, 
For solitude his mind improved. 
Though mau}^ widows 3'oung and gay, 
And fair as man did e'er survey. 
And maidens charming, neat and sweet. 
As ever eye of youth did greet. 
All gladly would have gone with him, 
If so his mind had ta'en the whim, 
Yet to his cot alone he went 
And all alone his nights he spent, 
Nor servant, dog, nor cat nor cook 
Did he within his cottage brook. 
Though day time with his brother men. 
He ceaseless worked with tongue and pen. 
And what they could not understand, 
He'd gladly teach them heart and hand. 
But night was his to learn or sleep. 
And all must then their distance keep. 

XVI 

It chanced one dark and stormy night, 
(With sleet and snow the ground was 

white) 
His cottage all was wrapt in flame, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 119 

And gloom}' ruin soon became, 
Though fire-engines worked amain, 
And men did pump and tug and strain, 
The flames did round that cottage coil 
And through and through it hiss and broil 
Though it had all been soaked in oil. 
When morning dawn'd that building's 

frame, 
Beneath the grim destroying flame 
Had all a ghastly wreck become 
Of cinders and of ashy scum. 
In the cellar upon the ground. 
Amongst the embers scattered round. 
Together in a little mound — 
Charr'd fragments of a corpse were found. 
This was the awful tragic end 
Of their loved counselor and friend, 
Whom they were wont to give and lend, 
And have unto their hoards attend. 
Yes, it was him they all agreed. 
And hearts did ache and throb and bleed, 
Then women screeched and virgins screed, 
And donn'd for him the mourning weed. 
His statues in the church were placed. 
His name memorial windows graced. 
And monuments all wrought with art, 
Recall 'd him to the mind and heart. 
He was remember well and long, 
And loved with feelings deep and strong, 
Became the theme of poet's song, 
For none believed a single wrong 
To any one of human kind 
Was ever harbored in his mind. 
All mourn'd the grim untimely end — 
Of him their counsellor and friend. 



120 THE HEIR PF LYOLYNN. 

XVII. 

But he was a cosmopolite, 

Had roam'd the workl both day and night. 

Place him where ever breeze roam, 

That spot was a familiar home. 

Let him go forth the world to stray, 

Without a guide both night and day, 

No fear that he will lose his way, 

Where waters flow or breezes play. 

All lands and seas, the world's broad chart. 

Was limn'd upon his mind and heart. 

And friends had he as warm as those, 

(Who wailed him there with ceaseless woes) 

Amongst the family of men — 

Who dwelt within a distant glen. 

And those had brought the corpse to him, 

That was found 'midst the ruins grim. 

They'd brought it in a cask of oil, 

From a far distant, foreign soil, 

Where he had all the wealth conveyed, 

That he had in that city made. 

'Twas them who had the body charr'd. 

So its lineaments had marr'd. 

It so with fire singed and scarr'd. 

It could not by mankind be told. 

It it be corpse of young or old. 

Nor yet of woman nor of man. 

Though it with microscope they scan : 

The}^ it had in his cellar laid, 

Then ashes of his cottage made. 

And while to flames his cot was yieldingfree, 

He was far away upon the sea. 

Hasting to glens whence issued he. 

Where he was known as Roger Lea, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 121 

Back to scenes where in other days 
In market-houses and high-wa^'s — 
He had poured forth his gospel truths, 
To men and women, maids and )'ouths. 
And those firm friends that there he made, 
Who 'mongst his congregations strayed, 
And gently tlirough the gapers pockets felt, 
While he in gospel theories dealt. 
These were his fi'iends that turn'd his cot — 
To cinders and grim ashy spot. 
But the foremost of all that crew, 
The boldest and the fiercest too, 
Was Apgar De Vaux, a robber grim. 
Who little recked for life or limb. 
Fierce was his heart and strong his hand, 
Proved the first thief of every land. 
'Twas him the corpse to Roger brought 
And all the deed of burning wrought. 

XVIII. 

When back upon his native sod, 
Once more the feet of Roger trod, 
As in his native glen he drew, 
The first one there that met his view. 
Was this old man whose body there 
They just had robb'd with kick and jeer. 
And though ten years had only past. 
Since he on Lea had looked his last — 
He knew not the gay preacher more. 
Who had robbed him ten jears before. 
And all so altered Lea had grown. 
He scarce to any friend was known. 
Nor long he tarried there, off he flew, 
But where, was onl}' known to few. 
On, on he passed from clime to clime. 



122 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Ever at work in deeds of crime, 
And to what ever land he came, 
He always had a different name, 
His breast one sole desire flU'd, 
One only thought his bosom thrill'd, 
And that a burning greed for wealth, 
Which aye he won by fraud and stealth 
Though he enormous fortunes gain'd, 
Yet still the greed for ever reign'd. 
Oft in Spain he was known to roam, 
And long time made that land his home. 
One only child he ever claimed, 
And this Ribero Lea he named, 
One child for him to love or scorn. 
And this was out of wedlock born. 
By him the child was daily taught, 
'Till he with every vice was fraught. 
And these are the out-lines of that man, 
That here with Omar now we scan. 

XIX. 

On, on from corpse to corpse they moved. 
And soon tbe wealth of each they proved 
And ever into Roger's hold — 
Went all the largest coins of gold. 
They searched and robb'd 'till they had 

pass'd — 
To every corpse around them cast. 
By Lea one on a rock was seen, 
Some lumdred 3'ards away, I ween, — 
And water there did intervene 
Them and the distant dead between. 
Omar my trusty friend he cried. 
As he the lifeless form espied, 
Omar the tide is coming haste 



THB ILBIK OF LYOLYNN 123 

To yon corpse, there's no time to waste. 
Not I for all of earth nor hell, 
Straight from the Jips of Omar fell. 
Yon water looks too deep and dark, 
For me in such grim task embark, 
As now to swim to 3'onder mark, 
I think just then I saw a shark. 
No answer deigned old Roger Lea, 
But knife in hand plunged in the sea. 
Swift o'er with buoyant form and limb, 
Did he across the waters swim. 
It chanced upon the corpse he found 
A bag with shining specie crown'd. 
And when back o'er the flood he drew 
At Omar, 8 feet the bag he threw, 
And did again his words renew ; 
There see, what would have been lost — 
Had I not o'er the waters cross'd. 
But none of this with you I share 
This shall be my especial care, 
I know how to use it, when and whei'e. 
With envy which he dare not show 
On the bag Omar's eyes did glow. 
Silent a while stood either man 
Gazing on ocean's boundless span, 
But the leelings that through them ran 
I do not now propose to scan ; 
Silent they stood, 'till Lea began. 



Oh, what a priceless thing is death, 
When it has still'd your foeman's breath! 
And you yourself triumphant find, 
O'er men that were not good nor kind 
It makes one feel as though he trod. 



124 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

The veiy presence of his God, 
As though he into heaven had pass'd, 
Had choicest bliss around him cast. 
I never felt so grand, I trow, 
Nor yet so happy until now. 
I feel m^' limbs with vigor strung, 
Like that I felt when I was young, 
I only measured five feet five, 
But never found a man alive — 
In single fight witli me could strive, 
The bravest I could from me drive 
As angler flies roiled hornets-hive. 
I was swift as Saturn, strong as sin. 
And never got a passion in, 
Kept cool as snow, or frozen gin. 
And in the fray was sure to win. 
Many a man in strength a king, 
Whom I could flog and throw and fling, 
. Has been surprised how blows I'd bring. 
And how this toad could bound and spring. 
Preachers tell us there is a Grod, 
Might as well tell us there was sod, 
Or earth was form'd of rocks and flood. 
Or man had in him bones and blood. 
The man who doubts there is a God, 
Is sure, an idiotic clod. — 
Melt all the icebergs of the sea 
Within an old crone's cup of tea. 
Hang ocean on a rose-bush to dry, 
Skim clouds with a spoon from the sky, 
Lasso secure an avalanche 
With cobwebs to a withered branch. 
Spread a sheet o'er volcano's brim, 
To stop the flow of lava grim, 
From the rain-bow tear its glowing bars. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLrNN. 125 

Post "for sale", on the moon and stars, 

Place in a peanut's shell the sun, 

And in it make all planets run. 

And contract all unbounded space 

Down to the smallest flj-'s embrace, 

But never doubt, what creed, be taught, 

Though dark with disbelief 'tis fraught, 

There is an all pervading Lord ; 

A God of all creation broad. 

But priests don't rightl}^ understand — 

This Being all benign and grand. 

They tell mankind that faith and love 

Will carry them to joys above, 

They tell us faith will mountains move, 

But this I'd like to see them prove. 

And that pure faith is all we need. 

To gain us mone}^, drink and feed. 

Those who for these on faith depend 

I ween, will have a sorry end. 

When did faith from well or spring 

E'er yet a drink to mortal bring? 

Or yet broil him a steak of beef, 

And give his hungry mood relief? 

Can faith to us the force bestow 

To feel within the furnace's glow, 

Where white the molten mettles flow, 

And find a wreath of last year's snow? 

Or could she carry Roger Lea 

Unto the bottom of yon sea 

And let me there explore the main 

And bring me back alive again ? 

Why if such things as these could be, 

Nought but miracles we would see, 

No, thus Jehovah doth not move, 

His all omnipotence to prove. 



126 THE HEIR OF LYCLYNN. 

No, the omnipresent God of all 

Lets no miracles His actions thrall : 

By miracles no world He form'd, 

By miracles no atom warm'd. 

By prodigies no pit He delf, 

Although a miracle Himself. 

Preachers should teach from pole to pole — 

God hates a laz}', sluggish soul. 

And nought within His works we find — 

That's wholly unto sloth inclined, 

Though we the whole creation scan, 

Except the hog, the snake and man. 

I've travelled all this world around, 

And know how vast the fools abound — 

Who think all they need do night and day 

Is just to sit with faith and pray, 

And God will hand them drink and food, 

And feed each passion's craving mood. 

And if their throats should burn extreme — • 

Turn stones to plates of icy cream — . 

No atoms nature doth disclose 

Remain one moment in repose. 

See, I lift water in my hand, 

And all the while it there doth stand 

Though it all motionless appear, 

There's everlasting action there, 

Its particles eternal move. 

Nor slothful, atom there must prove. 

And must each atom of yon sea 

In perpetual motion be, 

For if one small particle there 

Motionless but one second were. 

Those vast floods would that moment 

change 
To something to all nature strange, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 12T 

Something ne'er seen in her works sublime, 
Something unknown to man and time. 
Even through the crust of ice we see, 
The particles in motion be. 

XXI 

Decay is mother of all things, 

All, all in nature from her springs, 

All things how e'er minute or vast 

Spring from her, to her return at last. 

She is at once the womb and grave. 

Of all that God to nature gave. 

Land, flood, man,tree, the tempest's breath. 

Are one vast panorama all of death. 

Through decay all in nature's range. 

Springs, blooms, and dies and has it change; 

The flower grows, blooms, fades and dies. 

And from its ruins others rise. 

The clouds whose waters foil in rain, 

The sun will rear to clouds again. 

The seed we sow within the earth 

Rots ere it gives another birth. 

Ha}^ that to charger's maw doth pass — 

Will flourish, grow again as grass, 

The steed will die, pass to decay. 

And upon nature's broad high-way 

To dust his carcass shall be turn'd. 

And by the tempests strown and spurn'd, 

And it that nourishment shall give. 

On which shall vegetation live. 

Thus his dust shall all collected be — 

And form as good a steed as he. 

These rocks that tower here sublime, 

Shall waste beneath the hand of time, 

Be scattered wide by yonder main, 



128 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

But into rocks shall rise again. 
And so with these dead bodies here, 
Who now begin to foul the air, 
Yea, stink in corruption rife ; 
Corruption was their source of life, 
Existence was their source of death. 
God gave and took away their breath, 
Their flesh and bones to dust shall rot, 
By winds be scattered and forgot. 
A million years may pass away, 
And still their dust with breezes play. 
Or lie in mire, filth and scum, 
But sure as fate the time will come 
Each particle that forms them here. 
Shall in other mankind appear. 
Yea, in the food on which we live 
They'll to us life and vigor give- 
Nature all to corruption gives. 
And on corruption each thing lives. 
The fiiirest maid that life-blood warm'd. 
Was out of foul corruption form'd. 
The strongest man that ever trod, 
Sprung from the grasses of the sod, 
The grass that waved in verdure green, 
Sprung, grew from rottenness obscene. 
Yea, from corruption's foulest den, 
The flesh and bones of beasts and men. 
That lie all o'er the world's broad face. 
In every flood, in every place. 
Preachers tell us there comes a day. 
When loud the angel's trump shall bray 
The dead rise straight in bright arra}^, 
And sui-e, I hope all mortals ma3^ 
But they heed not this truth sublime. 
The dead are rising all the time, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 12') 

Their cltist gives vintage birtli and life 
And crowns the earth with fruitage rife 
The soul that leaves the form at death, 
Straight gives another life and breath. 
The moment it's of flesh relieved, 
It's in some other one conceived, 
To some gem, sprmg with vigor rife. 
And stirs the embryo with life. 
Another term on earth renews 
With other flesh and bones and thews. 
Gives to another mortal birth, 
Stays 'till his te'-m is done on earth, 
Then is reborn again, again, 
Doth in some human form remain. 
Stays with each through weal, woe or pain 
'Till nature it doth from each unchain. 
Ever passing on from scene to scene. 
No intervals of sloth between. 

XXII. 

Oh, what a downright fool is man, 
Without brain enough himself to scan. 
Who fancies when his form shall die, 
His soul shall mount to worlds on high, 
And there in sloth for ever live, 
Only praises to his Maker give. 
Bask 'neath his Maker's bright warm smile, 
Perform no other task the while — 
Than just to chaunt some blissful song, 
With the boh', hol}^, seraph throng' 
Who from the mind of God were born, 
And did His own hand with shape adorn — 
To perform mights tasks for Him, 
Not rest in sloth as men would whim. 
Would the}^ not lazy spirits scorn 



130 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN 

If such from earth 'midst them were borne ? 

If God wished His great praises rung 

And ceaseless songs around Him sung, 

And nothing hear but music's sound — 

Through His holy heavens rebound, 

Why He'd turn a world into a fife, 

And bid it blare its music rife, 

A comet turn into a drum, 

Bid it for ever sound and hum, 

Be never mute nor still nor dumb, 

And all throughout His heaven come. 

Or make a universe be born, 

And turn it to a blaring horn. 

Or make vast stars to bugles grow, 

And wide their stormy music blow. 

Have stars to accordeons turn'd. 

And through the heavens kicked and 

spurn'd. 
Turn huge orion to a flute, 
And fill it all with sounds accute, 
Bid them throughout creation shoot, 
'Till nothing, nothing there was mute. 
Of mighty worlds an organ make. 
And bid it loud its tones awake ; 
The heavens with its music shake ; 
Throughout all silence burst and break. 
Make of mercury a jews-harp. 
And blare its music .shrill and sharp. 
Make seolian-harps 'mongst the stars, 
Streatch the chords 'tween venus and mars, 
Then let His breezes on them blow. 
And everlasting music flow. 
Or streach them 'long the milkj'-way. 
And bid strong tempests on them play. 
Or bid all worlds together pour 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 131 

Their voices iu eternal roar, 

And sing His praise for ever more, 

And tell Him how the}^ do adore. 

God don't need feeble voice of man 

To tell His glories have no span. 

And that He is infinite, sublime, 

A Grod unknown to change and time. 

XXIII. 

No, man would be a worthless sot, 

On nature a stigma and a blot, 

If he in sluggish sloth should reign, 

Without a joy or woe or pain. 

For man to live on bread and wine 

Pressed to his lips by hand divine, 

Without move of mind or limb. 

Or the least action caused by him. 

Are thoughts to me all foul and grim. 

1 do despise a lazy drone, 

Detest him flesh and brain and bone. 

And when I've heard mortals grieve. 

Mourn o'er the downfall of poor Eve, 

Who let the serpent her deceive, 

And did mankind of sloth relieve ; 

I've turn'd and blest her sacred name. 

And praised and praised the good old dame; 

And if a spark of manly flame — 

Yet smoldered in his spirit's frame — 

I've fann'd it into burning shame 

Which blushing o'er his features came ; 

I made the drone some action don, 

Awake, be up and moving on. 

XXIV. 

Faith in her way is very good, 
But she's not rightly understood; 



132 THE HETR OF LYOLYNN, 

I'd like to doff this virgin's hood, 

And loose her tresses from her snood, 

Let them adown her neck be hung. 

Full round her snow}?- shoulders swung, 

And o'er her heaving bosom flung ; 

And if this maid be fair and young, 

Hath sparkling ej-es and rosy lips — 

With pearls that they but half eclipse, 

With comely face and body too 

I would her kiss and love and woo ; 

But not treat her as mortals do — 

Make her saw, chop, dig, plow and hew, 

Nor make her gear and work the team — 

When suns are hot or tempests scream ; 

She should not grow and cook my food — ■ 

While I lay down in sluggish mood ; 

Wash m}" face and comb my hair, 

My heated temples fan and air. 

While I lay down in fix'd depair — 

Too lazy to get off my lair ; 

Too lazy e'en to draw a breath. 

Yet wishing for long rest and death ; 

Longing for rest on heavenly soil. 

Where even all the angels toil. 

If 1 was forced neath sloth's control — 

'Twould kill, annihilate my soul. 

Motion, action — work aye to do, , 

Motion, and perpetual too — 

Motion, with never stay nor pause. 

Are nature's all absorbing laws. 

Motion, stir, on — for ever on, 

For motion doth all nature don, 

God and all His angels toil ; 

My soul no sloth shall ever soil. 

Motion, all nature ceaseless moves — 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

This every atom of her proves, 

Action, motion, stir ever on ; 

Motion cloth all creation don. 

Blest be mother Eve, ever blest 

Who us unchain \1 from sluggard's rest, 

And gave to us the soul and zest, 

To after deeds of glory quest. 
I hear nature at her labors sing, 
I hear her tones for ever spring — 
All while she doth her hammers fling 
And sounding anvils roar and ring. 
Yes, ever, ever and anon — 
Doth she her ceaseless ballads con, 
Though no dull sloth her atoms don. 
But working on, for ever on. 

XXV. 

These dead here around us strown, 

All lying senseless as a stone, 

Are full of action, flesh and bone, 

In them no moment's sloth is known. 

They each are rotting, rotting on, 

Decaying ever and anon ; 

As full of action, motion now — 

As when life throbb'd from heel to brow. 

But their souls have only pass'd — 

Perhaps o'er lands and oceans vast — 

And life in embryos have heaved — 

That were moments of their deaths con- 

cieved. 
For like thought, which is only soul — 
It can move, bound from pole to pole 
In a second, or to heaven climb — 
Yea, in billionth atom of that time. 
But here their mortal parts remain, 



133 



134 THE HEIR OF LYOLYXN, 

Decaying on 'neath shine and rain, 

'Till they shall rot to dust again, 

And fly with winds o'er flood and plain. 

Each particle still fill'd with life. 

Yea, teeming with existence rife ; 

Inhal'd from all the atmosphere ; 

And hurl'd, scattered, no matter where — 

Together shall again adhere, 

And in other mankind appear. 

XXVI. 

I oft hear 'mongst the human train 

Dull echos of some sad refrain, 

I'd not live aye though void of pain, 

While they shed tears like pelting rain, 

Or wish they were a child again, 

Creations of some poet's brain — 

Who was too stupid or too A'ain, 

To dive into a deeper strain, 

And to his thoughtless kind explain 

How they die, rot and rise amain. 

Though once the sport of wind and storm, 

'Neath nature's plastic fingers warm 

Their atoms again together swarm, 

And into other mortal's form ; 

Create another form again. 

With human sorrows, joy and pain. 

Why the very instinct which wrought 

The wish, and bred the longing thought — 

Not to live aye, though void of pain, 

Or wish to be a child again, 

Show that the final end and change — 

In wishes through the spirit range. 

E'en all the worlds of endless space 

That in creation find their race 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 135 

'Midst Hzure air, like isles we trace 
Wrapt in the water's soft embrace, 
Are built from ruins of other spheres — 
That lived, and died in long former years : 
Jehovah formed them all at first, 
Then each to atoms He did burst, 
Then all again together brouglit, 
And others with the atoms wrought, 
Perhaps far brighter, grander spheres — 
Than those He built in former j^ears. 
And I as through this world I tiead. 
And watch the scenes around me spread, 
A something oft and oft I view 
That seems not wholly fresh and new. 
Seems just such sights I've seen before, 
But where, and when I know no more. 
Though well I know I never pass'd — 
Through scenes as there were round me 

east. 
E'en this scene that here round us lies. 
The rocks that here abruptly rise. 
This beach with boulders scatter'd o'er, 
Washed smooth as glass 'neath ocean's roar , 

These bloated corpses round me strown. 

Yon ship in ghastly ruin thrown, 

Yon far off ship which towards this reef 

Fast draws — to give us all relief, 

It seems I all have seen before 

Far back in distant years of yore ; 

Yea, every thing that here is seen. 

Through just such sights before I've been. 

Though I know my feet ne'er before — 

Have trod this spot, this barren shore. 

Why do these scenes thus vivid roll 

Through all the chambers of my soul. 



13(> THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Unless such scenes it pass'd before — • 
When other flesh and form it wore? 
Yes, -when some other man it warm'd, 
Perhaps like me exactly form'd. 

XXVII. 

Within nature nothing is lost 

And nothing created, though toss'd 

Upon the flame a timber lies, 

No matter what its weight or size 

Ere it upon the flame was cast. 

And to seeming destruction pass'd ; 

Yet, take its ashes and its smoke — 

And all the fire from it broke. 

And press them to the primal frame. 

They'll weigh and measure just the same — 

That stick of timber did before 

The fire it to ruin wore ; 

The fiames its form have onlj^ changed, 

All's there but differently arranged. 

O'er earth all will be strown again, 

And through the aid of shine and rain — 

Give succor to some other plant — 

Of the same size, or yet more scant. 

For if winds its atoms widely sow — 

It in a thousand plants may grow. 

And thus it is with every thing 

God ever did to nature fling. 

This soul that doth my body warm, 

Once warm'd some other human form. 

That long, long centuries ago 

Knew all the feeling that I know ; 

Trod the same walks throughout the earth, 

Saw the same scenes of woe and mirth. 

And so 'twill do again, again. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 137 

When it o'er me shall cease its reign. 
Until shall come the end of time, 
And nature's death knell God shall chime ; 
And all that in creation lives, 
To which He shape and being gives — 
Shall at His fiat shift and change, 
And all things differently arrange. 
And all into one form shall roll, 
One form the great primeval whole, 
That form a vast eternal soul, 
That soul the omnipresent God, 
The Jehovah, Messiah, Loi'd, 
Who all created at a nod. 
In whom shall all again be stored. 
Yea, man and every thing shall end- 
Save God the father, maker, friend, 
All back again in Him shall blend. 
All that did the begining know — 
No atom lost — the end shall show, 
And form again the primal whole. 
Be all again one form one soul. 
Be as He was ere worlds or man. 
Or yet eternity began. 
The boundless, vast, eternal whole. 
The omnipresent Godhead, Soul 1 
But motion shall not find its goal, 
It through Messiah still shall roll 1 

XXVIII. 

As on the surface of the lake 

The ceaseless rain drops pelt and break, 

And from innumerable rings, 

All the surface to circles brings, 

Each circle tinto circle clings — 

And circle into circle springs, 



]^38 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

For ever widiiig in their round, 
And aye togetlier mix and bound ; 
And as still faster falls the rain 
They faster rise and mix amain ; 
No matter where they rise and grow — 
The}^ into one another flow, 
On thus, they do 'till dies the storm, 
And they no more the lake deform : 
No more the rings or circles break 
The smooth, calm surface of the lake, 
Nor there the least emotion wake, 
All lies as calm and smooth and sheen, 
Though there no storm nor rain had been 
Then finally the lake doth change — 
And into something else aa-range. 
Something on which time never trod, 
To something only known to God. 
That lake is nature's vast domain. 
The storm the circles and the rain — 
That stirr'd the water's placid face, 
And trouble make o'er all its space. 
Are living things, the human race, 
That spring, and mix in one embrace 
As generations come and go, 
And into one another flow. 

XXIX. 

But look on these poor mortals round. 
Here stretched in slumber all profound ; 
Poor worthless lumps of filth and dust, 
In death's arms so suddenlj- thrust. 
Now no more in the eyes of God — 
Than maggots upon which we've trod. 
Oh ! how many a heart will throb, 
And loving kindred weep and sob, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 139 

When their dread, awful fates are known. 
Homes will in mourning long be thrown — 
And for what ? Lumps of flesh and bone, 
That once could love and weep and groan, 
Which will but rot and rise again 
In another form of woe and pain. 
When far the tidings shall be blown 
How on this reef jon ship is thrown, 
And all to utter ruin toss'd, 
And so many lives of beings lost, 
Appall 'd men '11 hail the dread event 
As an untimel}^ accident ; 
A term all wrong and misapplied, 
There's no such thing in nature wide. 
Ne'er an accident has yet occurred, 
There's no such thing, though there's such 

word. 
Whatever happens in the world, 
Though nations be to ruin hurl'd, 
And no warning came to inform 
Of coming earthquake, flood or storm, 
And though they shone in pristine prime — > 
They vanished in a moment's time : 
Yet there is no accident there, 
No miracles in their loss appear ; 
If some huge mass of rock whose form 
Had stood a thousand years of storm. 
And solid frame did yet reveal 
As closely knit as bar of steel — 
Were suddenly to break and go 
Upon vast armies camped below — 
And crush them to a shapeless mass. 
And pile them up like broken glass, 
Or crush them 'neath its weight as thin 
As sheet of paper or of tin — 



140 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Ill it tliere'd be no accident, 

No miracle in tlie event, 

With all God's movements it would chime, 

Which all are hidden and sublime — 

Predestined from the birth of time. 

The labourers that lifeless fall 

Beneath the tumbling of a wall, 

Die by as naturial a death 

As him who yields his vital breath — • 

On bed of sickness and of pain, 

Where at his side his friends remain — 

Who watch the loved one night and day, 

And see the mortal waste away. 

'Tis only the predestined end, 

But finite minds won't comprehend, 

To change this would change the world, 

And nature be to ruin hurl'd. 

Nothing grows, or dies, or can be 

Save God will'd it, and only He. 

What was not ordered by the Lord 

When first He spread His worlds abroad. 

And framed creation's boundless mass — 

Can never, never come to pass ; 

What e'er shall hap on earth to man 

Was destined ere his race began ; 

As did God from the first intend. 

Only shall worlds and beings end. 

XXX. 

What lies the poor atheist tells — 

That God with the greater number dwells. 

And that He always takes His post 

With largest guns, and strongest host, 

Or ever on the squadrons' side 

That stretch the deepest and most wide ; 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 141 

And from the side of the last reserve 

Great Providence doth never swerve — • 

But always there to aid and nerve. 

A down-right lie from start to end 

As e'er wag spake, or e'er was penn'd : 

And this I'll prove when I've the time — 

In language and in thoughts sublime. 

Was it so when huge Goliath fell ? 

Or hosts were crushed by the fearless Tell ? 

Was it so at Thermopyloe ? 

When conquoring died those hundreds 

three ? 
At Marathon or Platrea's field ?— 
When the few made thousands die or yield ? 
And on gory fields of deathless fame — 
Hundreds more at least that I could name ? 
But, God only with them toils and delves 
Who really strive to help themselves— 
Is truth eternal and sublime, 
As yet peal'd on the ear of time. 
Wake up and do the best ye can, 
Is what God asks of mortal man. 
Yea, do their bests with brain and limb, 
Then leave the rest to faith and Him. 
But stirring ever and anon, 
For ever working, toiling on. 

XXXI. 

Here ceased Roger Lea for close to shore 
Was heard the splashing of an oar 
And fifty yards from shore, I ween, 
A boat row'd by two man was seen- 
And like a trumpet deep and clear 
Guy Harold's voice o'er head they hear, 
For the twain in the boat he knew, 



142 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And as close to the reef tliej^ drew, 
Hail Oscar Brady, hail he roar'd, 
And from the rocks his welcome poiir'd, 
Thrice from reefs I've rescued thee, 
And now it's thy turn to rescue me. 
And if aright mine eyes discern — 
Thovi hast with thee old Peter Zurn, 
Hail Harold, hail the twain replied, 
And drew their boat the rocks aside. 

XXXII. 

Now, muttered Roger with a curse, 

The bad has really changed to worse, 

For greater thief than Peter Zurn 

Ne'er saw a blaze of fire burn, 

A man more fill'd with guile and fraud — 

Could not be found o'er nature broad : 

And every coin that we have found — 

He'll have before a day goes round ; 

I've knoAvn him thirty 3'^ ears and more, 

Been with him oft on sea and shore. 

If he remembers me at all 

You'll hear him style me Wallace Prall, 

He's of a crew of thieves the chief — 

Who always hover round this reef 

To plunder every helpless wreck ; 

I would that I could stretch his neck. 

Or dungeon bolt upon him turn. 

XXXIII. 

The man the}^ styled as Peter Zurn, 
Was tall and broad of form and strong. 
With thick sinewy limbs and long, 
And o'er his face that wore no beard, 
Long ghastly seams and scars appear'd. 
His shaggy hair was white as frost, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 143 

Or foam npon the billows toss'd. 
His eye was black as cloud of Bight, 
But like its lightnings keen and bright ; 
A color wore his face and nose — ■ 
That did his love for drink disclose. 
A wretch all through as base and foul, 
As e'er on midnight crime did prowl; 
A wretch as cruel, fierce and bold, 
As yet murder did for hate or gold. 
Well known o'er seas was Peter Zurn, 
A wrecker, cruel, grim and stei'n. 

XXXIV. 

Zurn give me joixr hand , thus Harold cried, 
Who by this time has reached his side, 
Welcome old boy, thrice welcome here, 
I thought you shortly would appear, 
And for you I've searched the wreck. 
From stem to stern from floor to deck, 
We searched it when the tide was low, 
And Hunyadi will tell j^ou so — 
We gathered all its shining spoil, 
To save you loss of time and toil. 
So start now hence with us friend Zurn, 
And you this pile of gold shall earn. 

XXXV. 

Smiles o'er the wrecker's visage pass'd. 
As in his boat the spoil was cast ; 
Then said to Omar and to Lea : 
Come deal out all your spoil to me, 
Or to perish I will leave 3'ou here 
Upon these headlands wild and drear. 
From Roger's eyes the tears gush'd fast, 
As in the boat his coin he cast. 
For well he knew his ghastly fate — 



144 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

If he should pause or hesitate, 
Or hold with Zurn the least debate, 
And all the wealth the nine did own, 
Soon in the wrecker's boat was thrown. 
Then from the reef the}^ all were ta'en, 
Borne to the ship upon the main. 
And then Zurn's wife took Ellenore, 
And search her garments o'er and o'er, 
Quickly found all she there had stored, 
Releaved her of the captain's hoard 
Which Bayard had for Omar stole, 
And wrought the captain's bitter dole. 
And thus it chanced that all the wealth — 
That the}^ had won b}' fraud and stealth, 
All they had pilfered from the dead, 
Was thus into Zurn's coffers spread. 
But none mourn Vl like Lea the loss of pelf, 
Though he hid his grief within himself. 
In three brief claj^s they trod the shore 
For which they'd sailed six weeks before, 
Some soon forgot the bitter past. 
For busy scenes were round them cast 



THE HEIR or LYOLYNN I45 



PART IT. 



" I wonder how the}^'!! us receive, 
And if they will all my tale believe, 
For when they knew me as a youth, 
They swore I never spake the truth, 
And they may think what I reveal, 
Is but a lie from crown to heel. 
But so many long j'ears have past — 
Since upon me they look'd their last, 
Perhaps they'll think as time has flown- 
My morals have far better grown. 
But one thing Roger 3'ou must do, 
Swear all I tell is strictly true. 
Aid me in every thing you can. 
And if I carry out my plan ; 
Yes, ni}' schemes meet no overthrow. 
Remember, betide me weal or woe, 
Omar forgets no friend nor foe." 
" And if I help you win your bride, 
Thus gravely Roger Lea replied, 
Ten thousand pound to me j^ou give, 
Or else a 3-ear 3'ou shall not live, 
One word from me 3'ou rightly know, 
Would shortly work your overthrow, 
But this I swear shall never be 
If you right jiistly do by me." 
" Don't taunt me so, thus Omar said, 
Wh}^ so oft on my feelings tread ? 
"Were I some things of you to tell — 
They'd lodge you in ? dungeon's cell, 



146 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And others were they noised abroad 

They'd give yon to the hangman's cord ; 

So Roger do not taunt me more, 

Nor 3^et so often probe my sore ; 

Witli Alice Mosman I shall win — 

All the domains of Lyolynn, 

There's but one sole man, and that's you, 

Can help me work m}^ scheme all through. 

So let us work as friend with friend, 

Yea, hand and heart unto the end. 

And all you ask to you I'll give 

Yea, truly as I speak and live ; 

And were it thrice the sum 30U ask, 

Soon as we carr}^ through the task — 

It shall to 30 u be dealt as free — 

As rain, that comes to earth and tree. 

Lea I haA^e ne'er forgot that you 

Was to my father Apgar true, 

Was unto him as firm a friend 

As e'er did fate to mortal send, 

And 3'ou too must recall the past, 

Remember to his very last 

Apgar was friend to Roger Lea, 

And for 3^ou died in strife at sea. 

Let's you and I through J03' or care — 

Be friends as 3^ou and Apgar were." 

" I meant not thus your rage to roil. 

Nor throw 3'ou in so wild turmoil, 

Nor did I mean to chafe 3'our pride ;" 

To Omar, Roger Lea replied ; 

" But my friend just think, pause and see, 

How huge the task 3'ou force on me, 

Two of mankind must be destroyed, 

Their beings made an utter void, 

Yes, find some wa3^ to make them die, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 14t 

So that on you will never lie, 
Long as you draw a vital breath, 
The least suspition of the deed 
Of being cause of either death, 
Have 3'ou of that for ever freed. 
Now tell me how this can be done 
Without the least mishap to me, 
Let's have it properly begun, 
And right the end will surely be." 

II. 

Silent they stood a little space. 
And looked upon each others' face, 
Full on Lea's eyes did Omar's glare, 
And Lea's unmoved return'd the stare. 
Such a defiant air they wore, 
Each with a foot firm placed before, 
So keen upon^ach other stared, 
They stood the while like men prepared 
To either ward or strike or thrust, 
And hurl each other on the dust. 
At length Omar said : Lea you must 
Aid me achieve all I have plann'd. 
Not fail me now with heart nor hand. 

Now list'n, these are my projects all 

On which I build my rise or fall. 
Soon as my kin George Mosman knows 
The water of the ocean flows — 
O'er the dead lord of Lyolynn, 
Lockhart and all his kith and kin. 

Save one frail child who is the heir 

To all those lands and castles fair. 
Who if dead he then straight would reion 
Sole heir to all the vast domain. 
And she lodged safe within my thrall 



148 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And through me alone can rise or fall, 

Kindly his heart towards me will grow, 

And grant my wish of long ago, 

The wish for which my heart has burn'd. 

And all my spirit longed and yearn 'd, 

Where e'er on earth my steps have turn'd — 

Since even bo3'hood until now. 

And will long as I breathe, I trow. 

Yea, grant me his daughter for my bride 

Who unto me he once denied, 

Let this be done and j^ou shall see 

How swift of others I'll be free, 

For all my plans are rightly laid. 

Save you I need no other aid. 

I have a place for Ellenore. 

And soon she'll trouble me no more, 

lanthe soon shall pass from view. 

Suddenly as a drop of dew, 

Children like her die very free, 

In hands of skillful leech like me. 

George Mosman's midnight haunts I know. 

The groves through which he's wont to go. 

And I know how to lie in wait. 

Yea, that has been my noblest trait. 

And I know how to strike my mark — 

Just let the night be e'er so dark. 

This 3'OU can vouch for well as I — 

I've done it oft when you were nigh. 

As in the past you've seen me do, 

You'll in the future witness too ; 

Sui-ely no more I need now tell, 

I think you understand me well. 

Old friend the day is waning fast, 

The hour of noon has long been past. 

The way is long to Mosman's grange, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 149 

So let lis quickly forward range, 
And see how we'll be welcomed there, 
I long to know how with them we'll fare. 

in. 

Thus these two men together talk'd, 
As through a mountain glen they walk'd, 
The road that led to Mosman's grange, 
A way to neither new nor strange. 
Though many weary years had past 
Since Omar trod that valley last. 
On either side the mountains stood 
All covered o'er with brush and wood. 
'Twas summer and a balmy breeze 
Was fanning through the forest trees. 
Tall poplars clothed with glowing green, 
With stately oaks and pines were seen, 
O'er each side of the ravine leaned, 
And from the sun their pathway screened, 
Their boughs were all so interlaced 
Sun-beams through them could scarce be 

traced ; 
And now and then a crystal rill, 
Came rushing down each stately hill. 
Watering violets that grew 
Amongst the roots of oak and yew. 
And lily and rose of every hue — ■ 
Which in the air their fragrance threw. 
While the tall grass waved dense and green, 
And where it grew not, moss was seen ; 
'Twas through such valley fair to view 
These twain together scheming drew. 
Scarcely the east with morn was gray 
When they had started on their way. 
And though they had not journeyed fast, 



lf,Q THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Yet o'er five leagues, ofground they'd pass'd. 
And one league more they had to range 
Ere they could reach the Mosman grange, 
And here abruptly turn'd the road 
Round hills that nought but granite 

showed, 
All bare were they of plant and tree, 
Nought but bare rock the e3^e could see. 
They bore no trace of living green, 
Not e'en a speck of moss was seen. 
Soon up the barren heights they drew, 
Where all the county met their view, 
And all beyond that barren scene, 
Lay stretched in loveliness serene. 
Even all adown the mountain's side 
Was nought but gloAving verdue seen, 
And all below stretching far and wide 
Was corn and wheat and pasture green. 
Far, far away three miles, I ween. 
Amidst the Eden glowing there — 
George Mosman's stately home was seen 
Beside a river broad and clear. 
Long paused the twain for fairer sight 
Their eyes had never viewed before, 
No matter where the eye might light 
The earth one robe of verdure wore. 
And midst the pastures vast and green, 
Were mighty herds of cattle seen. 
Huge flocks of sheep that skipped and 

played, 
And bleating through the pastures strayed. 
Or roam'd through orchards broad and vast. 
Where on the earth ripe fruit was cast. 
Long had the twain surveyed the scene. 
And not a word had pass'd between. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 151 

All wrapt in reA'erie profound, 
The twain surveyed the scene around, 
And well for them the thoughts that pass'd 
Through either breast the wliile they view, 
"Were not from lips in language cast, 
But kept in silence where they grew. 
For suddenl}^ as though the earth — - 
Had that moment given him birth — 
George Mosman right beside them stood, 
Though all that ridge of rocky hill 
Was bare of grass and bush and wood, 
Yet he'd approached so swift and still, 
They'd seen him not, nor heard his tread, 
Till his hand he placed on Roger's head. 
And ere Roger Lea had time to turn, 
Or move the hand that touched him there, 

Mosman thus began : Peter Zurn 
Scarce an hour ago left here, 
He told me how he rescued you, 
At least he spoke of WaDace Prall. 
But when he spake the name I knew. 
'Twas my friend Roger Lea for all. 
And here I've looked for you all day, 
I thought that you would shortly come. 
Here's a flask of wine, your thirst allay. 
For you've walked a long and weary way, 
And let j^our friend partake of some. 

IV. 

TJnstartled by the voice and hand 
That had so suddenly approached, 
And form that did beside him stand. 
Lea instantly the flask accroached. 
And thus began with accents bland 
As he the ruddy liquor broached. 



152 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Here's the noblest thing that God be- 
queathed 
To mortals smee they first have breathed, 
Yea, since we first with life were wreathed, 
Or soul in mortal flesh was sheathed. 
And will be while we draw a breath, 
'Till mortals all are hushed in death. 
Some mortals use this stuff" too free, 
Which causes woe instead of glee, 
They drink too early and too late, 
Which brings their years to shortlived date. 
Some swear they never drink at all. 
With this belief their friends they thrall. 
But late at night, when none are near, 
They more than take a double share, 
So royal drunk they go to bed. 
They scarcely know their heels from head. 
And these soon with hardened liver. 
Spleens that make their bodies shiver. 
Brains that all demented quiver. 
Are ferried o'er the silent river! 
But in the day time, cold or warm. 
While active is my brain and form, 
Is the sole time I taste of drink, 
All other times from it I shinnk; 
For nature's first great law to man 
Is of himself talte care if he can ; 
And creation's wise Law-giver, 
Taught me to take care of my liver. 
It was the first great law to man, 
And all on earth's diurnal span. 
And more, I scarcely taste of wine. 
Unless bestowed by friend of mine, 
Who is so lost to sense and wit, 
As waste his surplus cash in it, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 153 

Of hoard, I never had enough, 

To spare a mite to buy such stuff. 

These friends of mine have been so few, 

Not much of drink I ever knew. 

Pure water from the fountain's rill, 

Did best my nature a3'e distill. 

So here's to you long life and health, 

Ceaseles prosperity and wealth, 

Who never gain'd a dime by stealth. 

While here you stay may all your da3'S 

Glide on in one unclouded blaze 

Of peace and joy and lasting mirth, 

The choicest that are found on earth. 

Give me j^our hand my trusty friend, 

May time ne'er see our friendship end. 

May it as warm and brightly flow — 

As in the years of long ago. 

When I aided you with hand and brain 

To be owner of your broad domain ; 

Proved you the sole and rightful heir, 

To you five thousand acres fair ; 

Yea, help you win the grandest grange — ■ 

That lies within the world's broad range. 

And now to you I tidings bring 

That'll make j-our soul with rapture ring. 

Yea, make it in 3'ou bound and spring. 

All like a joy created thing. 

For now the lands of Lyolynn 

You, you right easierly may win. 

Yea, every castle, hill and plain, 

That ever formed 3'on broad domain. 

One child 3'et breathes this vital air, 

Or else 3'ou would be the sole heir, 

Upon the reef six da3'8 ago, 

I left the rest all lying low. 



154 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

The heirs, grim death has smitten all, 

Save one sole infant frail and small, 

And at her age they easy die, 

In hands of such as you and I ; 

And were but death to make her mute, 

None your right and title could dispute. 

But hark, if you should ever win 

The wealth and lands of Lyolynn, 

Omar De Vaux, and only he, 

Can make you of this infant free 

And this is his sole desire, 

For all this he will require — 

In repayment one thing from you. 

Him Alice give, she loves him true. 



Mingled joy, anger and surprise, 
Sparkled in Mosmsn's sable eyes. 
And tremors seem'd to shake his frame. 
Just as Lea mentioned Omar's name. 
And a moment did he silent stand. 
Still holding on to Roger's hand. 
On Roger's face still kept his look. 
Where it had rested all the while, 
Though,he there would read as from a book 
If what he said be truth or guile. 
At length his lips a smile essayed. 
As thus to Lea he answer made. 
"Think you I let my daughter wed 
With one who stretched her brother dead? 
Who slew so base my only son, 
Ne'er before was murder fouler done." 
" Your infernal chai'ge I do deny. 
And were I just about to die, 
I'd swear it was a down-right lie.'' 



THE HEIR. OF LYOLYNN. 

With haughty air, and flashing eye, 
Fierce Omar on his speech broke in, 
With voice of loud and angry din ; 
And drawing nearer and more nigh 
Met his accuser eye to eye. 
With their gaze fix'd on cither face, 
They silent stood a little space : 
Omar with calmer voice began, 
You in me no murderer scan 
Of any of your name nor clan, 
And ne'er by me was harm e'er done 
To one sole hair upon your son. 
Mosman, I swear by yonder sky. 
Were you not older far than I, 
And father of the one I love 
Far, far all else on earth above, 
Have adored since boyhood until now. 
And shall long as I breathe, I trow, 
And were you not also kin to me, 
I tell }■ ou Mosman frank and free. 
Were it not for wiiat I've just named, 
When me 3'ou for the murder blamed, 
And had it far and wide proclaimed 
That I your son had basely slain, 
Yea, cast on me so foul a stain, 
You should have the charge denied, 
Or you or I or both had died. 
There is a law within this land. 
And may such statute ever stand. 
Wherein the accused has the right — . 
To call his accuser out to fight, 
If he in the combat victor be. 
The law considers he is free 
Of the grave charge for ever more, 
And was but lies from crust to core. 



155 



156 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 

Anci when on me the charge 3'ou threw, 
That I your son so foully slew, 
Instead of flying from the view, 
Of all I loved and all I knew ; 
I should back on you the charge have hurl'd, 
Declared that 3^ou had ta'en his life, 
And challanged you before the world 
To meet me straight in deadly strife. 
Had I done this, you had come forth. 
Or East and West and South and North, 
You had been bruited far and wide — 
As dastard coward proved and tried. 
Who on the innocent had lied. 
Whose hand and soul was all defiled, 
With the foul murder of his child. 
And had we e'er in combat closed, 
Yea, hand to hand with swords opposed. 
You know how swift had come your last, 
And I'd unscathed the conflict pass'd. 
For better sword'sman well 3'ou know — 
Than I ne'er faced a mortal foe, 
Nor from its scabbard drew a blade — 
Since first a dirk or sword was made : 
To have slain 3'ou with sword or dirk — 
Had been to me no minute's work. 
Had we pistols chosen for the strife — 
I'd in an instant ta'en your life. 
You've never known me miss my mark. 
In day time or at midnight dark. 
See, near the bush of yonder ridge 
Full fifty 3'ards from here I trow. 
There flies a bird small as a midge, 
Just see how I shall strike it now," 
He said and from his breast he drew 
A pistol polished flashing bright, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 157 

Ere a second past its bullet flew 

And dropped the bird while on its flight. 

Another from the bushes rose 

And while in nir its wings it spread — 

Another pistol he did disclose 

And in an instant shot it dead. 

" Now Mosman 3^ou can plainly see," 

Thus De Yaux again began, 

What chances for miss shot there'd be, 

Had I larger mark like man. 

Why, had I loaded pistols here 

And thousand swallows round me flew. 

I could hit every one as fair, 

The instant that they met my view ; 

But I came here with my friend Lea, 

In friendly guise to talk with you, 

I hoped that you would meet with me 

In kinder way that now you do. 

You remember my ways of old 

They are now just the same as then — 

Best is the truth however told, 

And no matter where or when, 

So I shall frankly speak and plain, 

Nor could be fitter place than here. 

Don't meet my projects with disdain, 

For I now deal with you sincere. 

Give Alice Mosman for m}^ wife. 

Let it be kindl}^ done and free, 

And ere a month I pledge my life — 

You sole heir of Lyolynn shall be." 

He ceased and upon Mosman 's face 

Grim Omar fix'd his glaring eye, 

Who silent stood a little space, 

Whistled a while then made reply. 



158 THE HEIE OF LYOLYNN. 

VT. 

" Should I refuse my child to thee 

Wouldst thou not do all this for me ? 

Work heart and hand 'till thou shouldst see 

I of all hinderence were free 

To heir those lands so broad and fair, 

If I part with thee should share ? 

Now to this end give me thy aid, 

And thou'lt b}^ me be well repaid, 

Wealth will be more to thee I trow, 

Than hundred maids like Alice now. 

Forgo the maid and think of this, 

'Twill in the end bring greater bliss," 

" Not I for all of earth or hell, 

Fierce from the lips of Omar fell. 

Of wealth I have enough, this land 

On which we do this moment stand. 

Though barren wild and drear it be. 

Yet every foot is own'd by me- 

I bought it all a year ago, 

Here are my deeds that I can show. 

And let me win or lose your child. 

Here shall soon on these crags be piled, — 

A castle huger and more grand. 

Than can be found upon 3'our land. 

When I erect my palace here, 

I'll look down on j-our mansion there, 

And view the home of her I love. 

And who loves me all else above, 

Aha, you need not shake ^our head, 

Nor think she'll with another wed. 

I know the feelings of her soul. 

Yea, all the thoughts that through it roll, 

Though weary, weary years have past — 

Since on that maid I looked my last. 



THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 159 

I know her love for me will last, 
E'en were her fate with others cast : 
Here on my turret's topmost stone, 
I shall at twilight sit alone, 
And gaze down from my lofty throne, 
On her I'll in the future own. 
And when 3^ou die and sink to dust. 
And I thank God some day you must. 
Then will the barrier be moved. 
That bane so long to true love proved. 
No, though I'd rot both flesh and bone 
And mj' poor heart be turn'd to stone, 
For not aiding you those lands to own, 
I Avould not for 3'ou turn a straw, 
Though it 'twas in my way I saw. 
Nor aid 3'ou heir broad L^olynn, 
'Till Alice as my wife I win." 
Then answer thus George Mosman made 
While on Omar's arm his hand he laid. 
" Why kinsman 3-ou seem really wild. 
Yea, crazed with love for mj^ poor child. 
You talk like you did 3'ears ago, 
Has not long travel, toil and woe. 
Made wiser thoughts within you grow, 
And quell 'd that passions ebb and flow?"? 
" Talk not thus to me," Omar said, 
"As 3'ears of toil have o'er me sped, 
M}'^ love for her has stronger grown — 
Than that for her in youth was known. 
Mine was no love with ebb and flow. 
It never sign of ebb did show, 
'Twas like no river dull and slow. 
But rushed in headlong overthrow, 

Like mountain stream when hot suns glow 

On hill tops piled with melting snow. 



160 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

That rushes in a torrent strong, 

And carries ever}^ thing along 

That dares to bar its onward course, 

Still dashing on with growing force. 

Lat short shall be my tarry here, 

E'en though you far more friendl}^ were, 

You've now heard all I have to say. 

And I shall backward wend my way. 

Only shall you heir Lyol3nn, 

When I m}' soul's own idol win. 

So come friend Roger, come with me 

Where we shall far more welcome be." 

He said and down the mountain's side 

Began with hasty steps to stride ; 

But ere a hundred 3'ards he'd sped — 

Thus Roger Lea to Mosman said. 

VII. 

" The mortgage that I hold 'gainst 3'ou 
For tenthousands pounds has long beendue. 
And I came solely here to-day 
To see if you my claim could pay. 
I wish it paid I'll no longer "Wait, 
For I must settle my estate. 
All must be paid Avithin a year, 
And all the intrest in arrear. 
I do not wish to deal severe 
But heed what I now tell you here. 
In this world no man's worth a curse, 
Unless he has a well fill'd purse. 
And I'd not wish in your old daj^s 
To see you beg upon high-ways. 
Nor see you enter alms-house' door, 
A beggar pennjdess and hoar. 
And were I now to force from you 



THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN, 161 

All that to me is justly due, 

I would leave you but little more — 

Than ragged beggars have in store. 

Since through me all you have, you won, 

I'm loath to see you now undone. 

But you can pay me if you choose, 

And don't yon fool his wish refuse, 

So call him back and give your child, 

His love is generous though wild, 

Why need you care if him she wed — 

So she is treated well and fed? 

Had I a dozen daughters, young. 

And fair as ever danced or sung, 

Or round the may-pole skipped and sprung, 

Or flowers on the alter hung, 

And I were asked like you were here, 

I'd not a minut pause, I swear, 

But gladly give each cherished maid. 

If I like j-ou were amply paid. 

Don't say a word, but just be still. 

Arguing often ends in ill, 

No words put in 'till I am done, 

What I've to say is scarce begun, 

With words don't interrupt me so. 

What 3^ou think I don't care to know 

Children were given unto us 

To pa}^ our debts, so treat them thus : 

Now call him back and give j'our child, 

And fortune never on you smiled — 

As she will do when this is done, 

When Alice makes yon man your son 
Don't j^on stand gaping like a fool, 
The dumbest in some village-school, 
With scarce the wit to laugh or whine, 

Stupid as some tobacco sign. 



162 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Haste 3-011 forth after Omar's track 
And call the love-sick mortal back, 
And treat as yon should your kin, 
Who never did 'gainst 3 on a sin ; 
There's no time to think, pause or stay, 
Go bring hian back, away, away." 

VIII. 

Rapid as springs the antelope, 
From hounds that near him pant and grope, 
Mosman leapt down the rock3^ slope, 
Lea's threats and Omar's promised gain — 
Had all bewildered made his brain. 
He rushed like one all crazed and wild, 
Down the steep rocks so craggy piled 
Shouting Omar, Omar on he flew, 
'Till he beside his kinsman drew. 
But what words pass'd between them there, 
And what all their promises were, 
To treat each other true and well — 
'Twere long and needless now to tell, 
Soon the3^ seem'd warmer friends, I ween. 
That they before through life had been. 
So far from Lea they stood, no word 
They spake b^' him was over heard. 
Alone they talked 'till shades of night — 
Had lowered o'er the mountain's height, 
Then Lea they joined and forth the3' strode, 
Adown the long and winding road — 
Towards where a glowing taper showed — 
Mosman's and Alice's abode. 
But as they left the mountain ridge — 
They pass'd along a narrow bridge, 
That foot-way made o'er roaring linn. 
That rushed a darksome gurge within, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 163 

Hard by it rose a lofty mound 

That was with bush and brier crown'd, 

And on that very spot of ground 

George Mosman's son was murdered found, 

All gashed and left a horrid sight, 

About ten years ago that night. 

Here paused the three, no word was said, 

Each stood as silent as the dead, 

Suddenly 'midst the bushy mound 

Was heard a low and dismal sound, 

As one who draws to life's dread close, 

And one solitary owl arose 

From out the bushes to their view, 

And round and round the mound it flew, 

The while on air its hoots it tlirew. 

Then all at once from sight withdrew. 

Back swift into the bush it fled, 

And lay as silent as the dead. 

IX. 

Swift from the place they drew 

As though they feared the scene to view, 

A tremor pass'd through Omar's form — 

That shook it all like leaf in storm, 

For in that owl that met his view. 

And thrice so close beside him flew, 

He in it fancied he could view 

The boy that there he basely slew. 

Mosman's son whom ten 3'ears before 

He had sought there and stretched in gore, 

'Twas well for Omar it was night, 

And that his visage ghastly white. 

By Mosman's vision was not scann'd 

As there he did in silence stand 

And trembling eyed with panting breath 



164 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

The by gone scene of blood and death. 
Back a lingering look he cast, 
As he increased his pace more fast, 
His thoughts were busy with the past, 
When his poor victim breathed his last; 
When on that warm and sunny day 
He shot him"Avhile he sleeping lay. 
And then his throat all ghastly scarr'd, 
His face and bod}' gashed and marr'd, 
Left him so mangled on that mound, 
Amongst the briers growing round, 
And bush that densely robed the ground, 
He scarce was recognized when found. 
And this is why the deed was done. 
Omar De Yaux and Mosman's son, 
Quarrel'd o'er some trivial thing, 
Which soon to blows the twain did bring, 
De Yaux was pummeled far the worst. 
Through all the fraj , from last to first, 
From Mosman's mansion he was spurn'd, 
And long time past ere he return 'd. 
To none of Mosman's it was known. 
Where the desperate youth had flown. 
They fancied he was far away, 
But he in secret near them lay, 
And watched them all both night and da}-. 
It chanced young Mosman watched some 

sheep — 
That grazed along this lonely steep. 
The day was bright, the sun was warm. 
And he in slumber stretched his form. 
To the youth Omar snake-like crept. 
And shot and slew him while he slept. 
His dirk within the linn he cast 
As from the scene of blood he past. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. If.S 

Then off to foreign climes he fled, 
Nor return'd 'till three 3'ears had sped. 
About the date the youth was slain 
A letter stamped with post mark plain, 
"Was mail'd at Yalladolid, Spain, 
To Alice from De Vaux it came, 
Breathed only love and holy flame, 
Three thousand miles of land and main. 
Lay 'tween her and that town in Spain, 
So it 'twas not Omar did the deed, 
By her and all 'twas well agreed. 
Omar could not the youth have slain, 
For he was at the time in Spain, 
"Was thought firm fix'd in every mind. 
From highest lord to lowest hind ; 
For from the time he last was seen 
'Till then a year had past between. 
So when the murdered boy was found, 
And the grim tidings flew around, 
The murderer 'midst the hills was sought, 
And two old gipsies there were caught, 
All swore they must the deed have wrought, 
And straight they were to trial brought. 
Some women went so far to swear 
They saw those two old gipsies near 
The very spot the coi-pse was found. 

And that they heard a dismal sound, 

As would come forth from one in pain. 

As must have issued from the slain. 

And all this happen'd at the time. 

Or there about was done the crime, 

The very day the boy was miss'd. <• 

Then the wild rabble groan 'd and hiss'd, 

And at the gipsies shook their fist. 

Grim curse and threat upon them threw, 



166 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

While missiles on the gipsies flew. 
Lynch them the rabble roar'd amain, 
While oaths and threats they pour'd like 

rain. 
Lynch them men shouted far and wide, 
Burn them, old shrieking crones replied. 
While all amazed the gipsies stood, 
Silent as statues carved in wood ; 
And witnesses against the twain, 
Gathered there from all sides amain ; 
What each one swore was all believed. 
No matter what their brains conceived 
It all as gospel truth was ta'en. 
The gipsies did the crime, 'twas plain. 
A day the two in jail were flung, 
Then tried, convicted and were hung. 
Died for a crime they did not do, 
As on earth have suffered others too. 
Died by the lying tongues of those 
Too often doth the world disclose. 
Who nought but evil will believe, 
And nought but evil can conceive — 
Against the race of mortal kind, 
To all their virtues deaf and blind, 
Who gladly see a mortal fall. 
And joy in his misfortunes all. 
Who when they hear a tale of ill. 
Spread it with all their might and skill. 
And strive to make it blacker still, 
All with grim proofs more damning fill. 
Who are aye ready to be sworn, 
And to the witness box be borne, 
Whose trade false witness 'tis to bear, 
And 'gainst the innocent to swear. 
Who commit perjury for meed, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 16T 

Or any grim, infernal deed, 

On whose oatlis judge and juries place — 

Far too much trust and faith and grace. 



Tlie letter which to Alice came 

And showed from Spain was brought the 

same 
Within a league of her was penn'd, 
And Omar it to Lea did send — 
Who then from Valladolid hailed, 
And he for him the letter mailed. 
Right well the time did Omar know 
That it would unto Alice go, 
So to his hidings ho withdrew, 
Which none but his confederates knew. 
And when arrive the proper time, 
He promptly wrought the bloody crime : 
The gipsies on the gallows grim, 
Paid for the deed was done by him ; 
Time flew on, and two years had fled. 
Since the youth numbered with the dead, 
By man3^ was the deed forgot, 
But daily Mosman roam'd the spot. 
All day beside the place he'd stray, 
And weep the weary time away, 
As though he there some solace won, 
While mourning for his slaughtered son. 
It chanced one day he view'd the linn, 
And saw a dagger lie there in. 
From the waters deep, clear and swift, 
He did the gleaming weapon lift. 
The handle of the glittering steel 
Did Omar De Yaux's name reveal, 
A thrill of horror shook his frame, 



1(;8 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

As he beheld that well known name. 
Yes, thought he, all's reveal'd at last, 
I see now through the awful past. 
It's as I fiincied at that time, 
'Twas Omar did the horrid crime, 
Here on the blade are stains of blood, 
Unmoved by time or yon swift flood 1 
By none but him the deed was done. 
No other mortal slew my son. 
So to himself George Mosman thought, 
And to his home the dagger brought, 
He there the blood-stain 'd blade concealed, 
Nor to a soul his thoughts revealed. 
Locked in his heart his secret fast, 
'Till he his eye on Omar cast. 

XI. 

It was a cold and dismal day, 
O'er earth the sleet and snow-drifts lay, 
And loud without the tempests brayed. 
Which to and fro the forests swayed. 
George Mosman just had journied home 
From the spot he was wont to roam, 
And his large sable eyes still yet 
With their huge tears of grief were wet. 
As sudden oped his mansion's door. 
And Omar pass'd his threshold o'er. 
Beside his hearth George Mosman stood, 
His back turn'd to the blazing wood. 
Which gave forth warmth and brightness 

good. 
Hail my dear kinsman, Omar cried. 
As he strode up to Mosman 's side, 
And offered unto him his hand. 
Who still as death the while did stand, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 169 

Nor did with voice nor liaiid nor smile, 

The least of welcome malce the while. 

But on the intruder fix'd his e3'es 

In rigid, glaring, stern surprise, 

At least five miuuts pass'd or more, 

Yet he stood silent as before. 

Nor moved his gaze from Omar's face. 

Where it at first had ta'en its place. 

Keen rage in Omar's bosom burn'd 

And he the silent look retnrn'd, 

Fix'd full his eyes on Mosman's stare, 

Unquailing met their piercing glare. 

At length George Mosman thus began — ■ 

I've something here for you to scan. 

Then from a drawer the dirk he drew, 

And held it close to Omar's view- 

From Omar's face the color fled, 

'Till he looked ghastly as the dead. 

And not a single word he said. 

While shook his form from heel to head. 

George Mosman watched with eagle e3'e, 

He saw his cheeks all color Qy, 

And while he watched him quake with fear, 

Thus spake in accents deep and clear. 

XII. 

By your emotion I can tell 

You know this dagger all too well. 

And you can see on it I trust 

Those small dark spots of bloody rust, 

See thej^'ve been spared b}^ flood and time. 

To now reveal your bloody crime. 

Murder will out, hide it as you will ; 

Woe to him who human blood doth spill 

A curse will heel him for the crime — 



170 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Through all eternity and time, 
Though the dead be sunk in a gurge 
From whither nothing can emerge, 
And with the flood the dead be hurl'd 
Down to the centre of the world, 
And rot in everlasting night. 
Seen never more by human sight. 
Yet the time will come sure as fate, 
Let it be either soon or late. 
When God the murderer will show, 
Point him out, plain as yonder snow; 
God will the murderer reveal. 
Plain as we see this blade of steel : 
You has fate pointed out to me. 
In 3^ou my son's murderer I see. 
The day I miss'd him on the hill, 
I thought then you had dealt him ill. 
But did not fancy at the time. 
You would have done so foul a crime. 
And all the while our search we sped, 
I did not think we'd find him dead. 
I thougii within some cavern grim — 
You and your crew had fettered him. 
T:wo days we searched in vain, no word, 
Nor sight of him we saw nor heard. 
Though o'er nigh all the hills we stirr'd, 
Yain two days we search, on the third 
Upon the knoll beside the linn 
Crows gathered there with ceaseless din, 
We climbed and searched the busli}- mound, 
And there my murdered son was found. 
Two gipsies for the deed were hung, 
I saw them from the gallows swung. 
Though all the people far and near, 
Threw the guilt on that wretched pair, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 1*71 

And did them unto death condemn — 

Yet I ne'er fancied it was tliem. 

Two 3'ears sped on, the trnth lay hid. 

As was the dead 'neath coffin lid, 

The while I found no single clew — 

By which to trace the deed to 3'ou, 

Although 'twas you the crime that wrought, 

I just as firm as ever thought. 

About the time two years had past, 

This dirk I found where it was cast 

Within the waters of the linn — 

By 3'ou, in hopes to hide 3' our sin ; 

See, fate has not let time nor flood — 

Yet wholly cleanse it all of blood, 

For these small spots that dim its glow — 

If analyzed man's blood would show. 

You see how God has all reveal 'd. 

That 3^ou thought hidden and. conceal'd. 

And other proofs I've found of late 

That prove 'twas you as sure as late. 

Weeks ago I your pistol found — 

Where you had hid it in the ground, 

Now see it lying in yon drawer, 

It often in your hand I saw, 

A league from where the crime you did, 

That pistol in the earth you hid, 

The rains had washed the mould away, 

And did but inch of it display. 

It chanced just on the spot it lay 

One morning did my footsteps stray, 

I spied it, took it from its lair, 

All rusted as 3-ou see it there : 

Balls from my murdered son the3^ tore 

Exactl3' fit that pistol's bore. 

But not a word of what you hear 



172 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

I've breathed before in human ear, 
For were I this to breathe abroad — 
'T would give you to the hangman's cord. 
And loath am I to see my sister's son — 
Though darkest deed to me he's done — 
Deed the most cruel and unkind — 
He could have plotted in his mind — 
Yes, I am loath to see you die 
A death of shame and infamy 
Upon the gallows grim and high, 
Fiend though you are of basest dye — 
That ever yet with human eye — 
Has looked on earth or sea or sky. 
So hear, this night I bid you fly — 
And seek some distant unknown shore, 
Nor dare to let me see you more, 
Don't dare to roam this county round. 
But haste forth to earth's furthest bound, 
Ne'er let me see your face again, 
Nor hear you in this land remain. 
Or you shall lie chain 'd in dungeon's gloom, 
And you die, the gallows is yourdoom. 
But if you keep from out my view — 
You'll shun the vengeance justly due : 
To none within my mansion here 
I wish it known that you are near. 
Now — go forth I've no more to say. 
Speed for your life, nor moment sta3^. 
Death takes you if you now delay. 
Speed, there's the door, away, away. 

XIII. 

Had Omar on the gallows stood, 
About to wear the sable hood. 
With the strong cord already cast — 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 1*73 

Around his neck and knotted fast, 
Throwing on earth his look the last, 
He'd not seem'd so startled and aghast, 
As when Mosman unto his view, 
The pistol and the dagger drew. 
And in his ears these tidings threw. 
Three times he strove to make replj', 
But still all vainly did he try, 
Complete his tongue dead palsied lay, 
And not a single word would say. 
On Mosman one short look he east, 
Then turn'd and o'er the threshold pass'd, 
Strode from the door with hastly tread — 
Forth unto a neighbouring shed — 
'Neath which he late had tied his steed — 
And in the saddle leapt with speed, 
Struck deep his spur, through sleet and 

snow — 
That blasts were tossing- to and fro, 
And night which had begun to grow — 
Did from the grange like whirlwind go; 
And Mosman's was the only eye 
Had seen him enter there, or fly. 
Eight years from then 'till now had past — 
Since these grim twain had parted last, 
Or on each other look had cast. 

XIV. 

I said that Omar's face grew pale, 

Or whiter than the whitest sail, 

That short and panting grew his breath, 

And right tottering grew his tread — 

As pass'd the b}^ gone scene of death, 

The three along in silence sped : 

And that his spirit quailed with awe, 



174 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And shook him all with ghastly fear, 
When that lone hooting owl he saw 
Rise from the bushes dense and drear ; 
1 said 'twas well that it was night, 
And that grim Omar's visage wdiite — 
And all his tremors of aflright — 
Were hid the while from Mosman's sight, 
And so it was for Mosman's eye 
Was fast on Omar fix'd the while, 
Near De Vaux soon he drew more nigh, 
And thus began with seeming smile. 
" Kinsman right glad I am to hear 
You do jT^on tract of mountains own, 
For there's a boundless fortune there 
In iron and in coal alone, 
Besides the quarries vast of slate 
That all throughout those hills abound, 
A richer and more grand estate 
Could scarcely in the land be found. 
But how came you in fortune's way 
To win BO quick so vast a hoard ? 
Huge was the price the owner lay 
Upon thai tract of mountains broad." 
Omar answer made, "From Peru 
A stately ship once sail'd for Spain 
With gold and silver fill'd, her crew 
Had from the wealthy Incas ta,'en ; 
That long had been at Cuzco stored, 
Within the Temple of the Sun, 
Which Manco built to hold his hoard. 
Who first the Inca race begun. 
By some mishap that vessel sank 
At night in fort}' feet of brine. 
And only one sole man was saved 
Amongst a crew of eighty niue. 



THH HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 175 

But where she sank he told, only few, 
These with him strove the hoard to gain, 
But when e'er to the place they drew 
The tempests instant stirr'd the main. 
Though it was calm as calm could be, 
And the sun beam'd down bright and warm. 
And not a ripple showed the sea, 
Nor skies the faintest trace of storm. 
Yet at the nioiuent that they drew 
O'er where lay that vast sunken hoard, 
That instant wild the billows flew. 
And roaring tempest rushed abroad. 
One hundred years had pass'd away 
And still beneath the rolling main 
The hoard within that vessel lay, 
For all attempts the hoard to gain, 
Throughout that time had proven vain : 
Yes, still from sire unto son 
The hoard was sought but never won, 
And where in sea the vessel lay. 
Few knew though ages past away. 
At last to me the tale was told. 
And for this sunken hoard of gold, 
I with some daring comrades sought, 
And from the seas the treasure brought, 
At peril of both life and limb — 
In flood for it did dive and swim ; 
The largest share of all I caught. 
And have with it these mountains bought. 
And have enough yet left in hand — 
To build me here a castle grand. 
I sought the hoard with Roger Lea, 
Who from tiiat wreck within tlie sea-^ 
Won ample hoard as well as I, 
Who now can answer it I lie. 



176 THB HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

XV. 

While thus they talked, they closer drew 
To Mosman's home that rose in view, 
Clear shone the lights from window-pane, 
And sent their glare o'er field and lane, 
Bright rose the moon though on its wane, 
And showed forth Mosman mansion plain. 
From its foundation to the vane. 
'Twas a stately and fair abode 
That there beneath the moonlight glowed, 
'Twas circled all with hedges trim, 
And grass and flowers growing frim. 
Dense o'er the mansion's lofty wall 
Did ivy and honey-suckles crawl. 
And all around the air was fill'd 
With odors that the rose distill 'd, 
From violet and lil}- 's bed 
Around the sweet perfumes were spread. 
And these were all with snow-drops edged, 
Or with bordering daisies hedged, 
And all the garden far and wide 
Was gay with every flower pied, 
And long lines of shrub and box-wood 
Fringing the gravel 'd path-ways stood ; 
Here and there a towering tree 
Amidst that garden trim they see : 
Here and there a cedar tall and pine. 
O'er which climb 'd some flowery vine, 
The garden 'neath the moonlight clear 
Looked like an Eden blooming there. 
No matter where the eye might range, 
All was beauty round that stately grange. 
And in the midst the mansion grand 
Did like a lofty castle stand ; 
Huge was its size, and built of stone, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. j^^ 

Rear'd in the choicest style that's known, 
High was the building broad and long, 
And seem'd like some Gothic tower strong, 
Such as within the days of old 
Were built by barons proud and bold, 
Who king-like ruled a broad domain. 
Who's vassels formed a mighty train. 
Two hundred yards from this abode 
A broad and shining river flowed 
Calm was the eve, no breath of breeze 
E'en stirr'd the leaves of aspen trees, 
And 'neath the moon's brightglowing beam, 
All tranquil stretched the flowing stream, 
Smooth, clear as glass was its broad face,' 
No ripple there the eye could trace, 
Save afar where a little boat 
Did gently down its current float, 
From this at times a plashing oar 
Sent ripples dancing to the shore, 
But these were few and far between, 
Nought else disturbed the placid scene. 
Along the Sloping pebDly shore, 
Which all sublimest beauty wore, 
Long rows ol oaks and poplars grew. 
Which o'er the floods their shadows threw, 
'Neath these the three conferring drew, 
Till honse and garden met their view, 
There 'neatli an elm they stood awhile, 
To see the scene in beauty smile ; 
Fox they heard from the distant boat- 
Sweet music on the moonlight float, 
Mix'd with a soft, low voice at times— 
That woke the air with stirring rhymes 
It was a maiden's voice and haiut. 
That fill'd the air with music grand, 



178 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

"With voice like zephyrs sweet and soft, 
She stirr'd the strains ol music oft, 
With songs of love and joy and woe, 
Some good old songs of long ago. 
All the while in her busy hand — 
Loud, ceaseless sound, sublime and grand 
From deep toned accordion rung, 
And mvisic o'er the waters flung. 
While she fill'd the calm moonlit air — 
With song and music, rich and rare, 
At times when loudest grew her song. 
And music rose most deep and strong, 
A voice ol nightingale was heard, 
That in neighbouring valle}' stirr'd, 
And loud and long his lay at times. 
Commingled with her sprightly chimes. 
All would together blissful blend, 
And sweetest sounds o'er waters send. 
Yes, with the voice and organ's swell, 
Oft mix'd the lay of phiiomel. 
With them his music rose and fell. 
As though he knew the maiden's well. 

XVI. 

The organ ceased its sprightly sound, 
And utter silence reigned around. 
The soft, sweet voice had died away 
And phiiomel had ceased his lay. 
And still and slow the little boat — 
Did down the glowing river float, 
A minute or full more had past. 
Yet grave-like stillness yet did last, 
And just was Mosman in the act — 
To call across that watery tract — 
To her who had so sweetly sung, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 1*^9 

And had the air with music rung, 

When suddenly again she stirr'd, 

And plasliing of an oar was heard, 

Far up the stream she brought her boat, 

Then left it with the current float. 

As back adown the stream it went, 

This song upon the air she sent, 

No organ's tones with it she blent, 

But with voice soft and sweet and low — 

As e'er sung song of joy or woe, 

She sang, and philomel kept still, 

As rang her voice o'er stream and hill. 
Song: 

Where are the twain who long ago 

With me beside these waters stood. 

Who shared with me joy or woe. 

The bright, the beautiful, the good ? 

Who roam'd with me 'midst starm or shine, 

In life's gay, sunny spring, 

Whose merry laughter made with mine 

Earth with ceaseless gladness ring ? 

Who girdled with radiant light — 
Field and forest, land and sea, 
When they both were in my sight. 
Close tog-ether all were we ? 
Who the earliest impulse gave 
To my thought and feeling's flow ? 
Ah, one is far o'er land and wave, 
The other mute, dead and low ! 
Moldering in the dreary grave, 
O'er him rose and daisies blow, 
Heedless of fiercest storms that rave, 
Wakeless slumber ne'er shall know. 
All around where once he kindled light, 
Now dwells nought but densest gloom, 



180 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 

His drear departure left a night 

Dark and silent as the tomb. 

Early was he ta'en away — 

While in his glorious prime, 

Flew to the realms of endless day — 

Beyond the sphere of woe and time. 

They robed him all in spotless white, 

Laid flowers on his silent breast, 

Then closed the coffin dark as night, 

And bore him to his endless rest. 

Oh, who can tell the grief and woe 

That through all my spirit sped — 

When I heard earth and pebbles go 

Falling on the coffined dead I 

Oh, mortal words can never tell 

What a jo}^ was swept away, 

What a dark lasting sorrow fell 

Round me on that dreary day 1 

All my bright joy and mirth took flight, 

All my fondest musings fled. 

Died hope, and sorrow's densest night 

Cast its gloom about my head. 

Like him within the desert drear 

Who pants with thirst on burning sand 

Who nought but woe can see or hear 

Across the dismal, dark'ning land. 

So then I lay and sorrowed deep 

O'er m}^ jt>ys for ever flown, 

Wept on 'till I no more could weep, 

'Till mine eyes had tearless grown. 

Then pain and grief in fiercer flow 

Did throughout my spirit roll, 

That grim unutterable woe 

Which tearless falls upon the soul, 

And must I by stern fate's behest, 



THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. Jgl 

That is cruel, hard as stone. 
Lock all my sorrow in my breast, 
And mourn on for aye alone ? 
Oh ! where is he I loved of yore, 
And all fondly cherish still, 

Who for me deathless friendship swore 

Through life or death, weal or ill ? 

Whose slightest look and smile and tone 

Could with rapture fill my soul ; 

Why does he leave me here alone — 

'Neath grim doubts and griefs control? 

Oh, shortly may some stately ship 

Bear him o'er the trackless main, 

Bring, bring him to this heart and lip, 

And these longing ej^es again. 

And turn m^^ grief to glowing mirth 

Warmly as he did before ; 

With gladness fill the happy earth 

With the joyous tones of yore I 

Thou stately vessel bring him here, 

Though his love be dead and flown, 

And in his soul be hatred where 

I was loved, and loved alone. 

If his warm love for me of yore 

Hath through time grown cold and tame 

I will rekindle it once more. 

Fan it into stronger flame. 

Thou statel^^ vessel Ijring him here 

Bring him to this lonely spot, 

To gladness turn my weary care. 

Let the past be all forgot, 

Bring, bring him here, and never more 

Shall he from me depart again, 

These arms should hold, and fold him o'er. 

As with an adamantine chain. 



182 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

XVII. 

Here ceased her melancholy strain, 

And utter silence reigned again, 

Yet still the while in Omar's soul — 

Her words like burning lava roll, 

Still in his ear their echo rang — 

As plain as while the maiden sang, 

For well, too well grim Omar knew, 

'Twas for him, and the youth he slew — 

All that poor maiden's sorrow grew, 

And o'er her soul this anguish threw. 

Alas, he thought where e'er I go, 

Must I hear nought but sounds of woe ? 

Is there no happiness on earth ? 

Is it completely void of mirth ? 

Alas ! no matter where I range, 

Upon the world of ceaseless change, 

Must I bear still through joy or pain, 

The everlasting curse of Cain ? 

Oh, God ! I would it ne'er had been — 

That I had view'd this sjdvan scene I 

Or I had ever journied near 

Where I that maiden's voice could hear , 

That I had staled on distant shore, 

And never seen nor heard that angel more. 

I would the maiden loved me not. 

That she had me long, long forgot, 

That all trace of love was dead and flown — 

She e'er for me has felt or known. 

If she the awful truth but knew — 

'Twas I her much loved brother slew, 

Would her strong love not turn to hate, 

And make the gallows be my fate ? 

And smile on me e'en while I stood 

With neck tied in the fatal snood. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 183 

And draw o'er my face the hangman's hood, 

Hide view of sky, earth, field aud wood? 

No, a wrong to me she would not do. 

Though all the awful truth she knew. 

And though I died by hangman's cord, 

I should by her be still adored, 

And o'er her love in joy or pain 

I should still yet the foremost reign, 

Though if I met so grim an end. 

For it her heart with grief would rend ; 

And through all turns of woe or weal, 

To her the truth 111 ne'er reveal. 

For the dread deed that I have done. 

Her days shall all in gladness run, 

I'll be to her 'till life shall end, 

A father, brother, husband, friend, 

111 fill her heart with nought but mirth, 

Make for her paradise of earth.. 

With her I haste the wedding day,' 

Nor shall her father cause delay, 

For when her as my wife I win, 

I'll make her heir of Lyolynn. 

Yes, all I worked for long ago, 

No, stay nor hinderance shall know; 

And ere a week from this be sped — 

111 lay old Roger with the dead : 

To help me now his aid I need, 

'Tis done, of him I'll soon be freed. 

XVIII. 

The while these thoughts through Omar 

pass'd. 
The boat to shore came gliding fast, 
Near where they stood the shallop drew 
On shore the maid the anchor threw, 



184 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Swift and lightly from the boat she flew, 
And Alice stood disclosed to view. 
Right where the moonbeams shone she 

stood, 
Her head was bare of hat and hood, 
Full on her face the moonbeams glowed, 
And all her visage plainly showed. 
Fair was her forehead, broad and high, 
And 'neath it flashed a coal-black eye. 
Her full round face was fair to view. 
Blushing all o'er with healthl}^ hue. 
Her features all were nobly formed 
O'er chin and cheeks the dimples swarm 'd, 
Her well formed lips were crimson red. 
Her teeth a pearly lustre shed, 
Her rovmd bare arms were white as snow, 
Or like the foam when tempests blow, 
Through gauzy robe her heaving breast 
The whiteness of hoar frost confess'd. 
O'er swan-like neck and shoulders fair, 
Hung heavy folds of sable hair. 
Tall was her form and strong and broad, 
But all together nicely stored ; 
More majestic symmetrj^ and grace. 
Ne'er for human form did sculptor ti-ace. 
Though huge her frame her step was light. 
As 'ever danced at day xsr night. 
All full of ruddy health she stood, 
In glowing prime of maidenhood. 
And fair as any j^et who trod 
In human form on rock or sod. 
Than lier's a soul more good and kind, 
Has never swayed a himian mind. 
Like her own thoughts serene and pure, 
She deem'd all other mortals bore. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 185 

She knew nought of tlie world around, 

And never from her home was found. 

In the home she had been born and rear'd — 

This rosy maiden aye appear 'd. 

Her sire though base, low and wild, 

And was by all a villain styled, 

Who mighty hoard by fraud had piled. 

He spotless kept his maiden child. 

Let few her presence move before, 

And those the pui'cst of the pure, 

Only a few whose souls were fraught 

With pious deeds and hol}^ thought ; 

It'd been the task of these choice few — 

To teach the maiden all she knew. 

And she knew scarcely more, I ween. 

Than what was 'mongst her flowers seen ; 

Her soul was pure and sweet as them, 

As any rose that bloom'd on stem. 

The books in which she had been taught — 

Were those the choicest poets wrought : 
And their creations pure, sublime. 
Were only taught in winter time. 
The ga3^est sport the maiden knew 
Was tending flowers that round her grew 
Or rowing her boat upon the stream. 
Beneath the moon's bi'oad glowing beam. 
Which short light toils to cheeks bestowed 
The healthly hue with wliich thej^ glowed. 
One only love the maid had known. 
And this had in her childhood grown, 
When Omar with her father dwelt. 
And at her same pure altar knelt, 
And through all time that flame she felt, 
Though had she known that he had dealt 
The cruel shot and thrust and blow 



186 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

That laid her cherished brother low, 

Her love liad all that instant flown, 

Like dust that is by whirlwind strown. 

Drove him from her for ever more — 

As the sear'd leaf is whirled from shore, 

Toss'd far upon the distant main. 

And never shall return again. 

This was the maid with spotless brow, 

Who Omar sought to marry now. 

And must her fate be joined M'ith him ? 

With one so base and foul and grim ? 

Must she be wed in her young morn — 

With one she'll learn to loathe and scorn? 

Must her pure life be clouded dim — 

Linked with a villain foul and grim ? 

One whose dark soul all evil swarms, 

And not a single virtue w^arms, 

Unless it be the love that grew 

In him for her when life was new. 

And which for her had stronger grown. 

Though since their parting years had flown, 

Though he had o'er the world been thrown. 

And which now glow'd as wild and warm, 

As ever burn'd in human form ? 

Or ever thrill 'd a nobler soul — 

With feelings it could not control. 

If this a virtue can be styled, 

Then he had one all burning wild. 

But, 'cause he loves her strong and true. 

As ever soul of mortal knew, 

Must her pure love with his be twined ! 

Will fate to her be so unkind ? 

Grant it not ye powers above. 

Who bring together those who love. 



THE HEIK OF LYOLYNN. 187 

XIX. 

When on the shore the maiden strode — 

Where all her charms the moonlight show'd, 

Her father and the other two 

With merry greeting round her drew. 

Her hand she stretched to Roger Lea, 

And gave a welcome frank and free ; 

So with beai'd was Omar's visage grown, 

Unto the maid he Avas not known, 

For when they'd parted years before, 

No sign of beard his features wore, 

In those days his face was smooth and fair, 

Now 'twas all sable shagg}!- hair : 

And when her father breathed his name, 

A frown o'er all her features came ; 

A frown that augur'd more of awe, 

Than love for him that now she saw. 

And when on him her gaze she cast, 

No smiles ath\^ art her features past. 

Like one bewildered and amazed — 

She seem'd when e'er on him she gazed. 

Gravely their meeting Mosman eyed, 

And view'd his child with secret pride. 

Conferring towards the house they drew. 

But oft a stolen, side-wise view, 

The rosy maid on Omar cast. 

Ere they the lofty threshold pass'd. 

The hallway was with marble paved, 

All wnite, with stately figures graved, 

And gave grand comeliness around, 

To all that hallway's spacious bound. 

Soon trod they in the fair abode. 

That all with brilliant tapers glowed, 

And huge fantastic pictures show'd, 

That did the walls and ceiling load. 



188 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 

One painting hung upon the wall 
That conspicuous was o'er all ; 
'Neath it was written bold and free, 
Plain for all gazer's eyes to see, 
Hugla De Vaux and Orla Lea ; 
The back-ground seem'd a forest vast, 
That was with midnight over cast. 
'Twas summer and the trees were green 
O'er all the earth tall grass was seen. 
And right in front this scene of wood — 
A murderer o'er his murdered stood, 
The dead that 'neath the villain lay — 
Was a lean, aged man and gray, 
A wound within his side was seen, 
Whence blood had gushed and d^^ed the 

green ; 
The murderer was dashed with gore. 
Huge clots his sable whiskers wore, 
And with a lantern in his hold — 
He lean'd o'er his victim gray and old. 
His hand was robbing fast the dead, 
On earth the slain man's coin was spread. 
The dirk that had the murder dealt, 
Glow'd red in the murderer's belt: 
It seem'd all gory grim and wet, 
Though it was crimson dripping yet. 
But had that limner's brain and hand — 
Who had that painting made and plann'd, 
Had Lea and Omar in his mind. 
And likeness of the twain designed, 
Or they the while before him stood. 
He'd not their portraits drawn more good. 
There complete from head to heel Avas seen 
Old Roger dead upon the green, 
There perfect had the limner placed— 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 189 

Same features that in Lea were traced, 
The same thin .lii:)s all void of grace, 
The hoary brow and sad, pale face. 
The man that bent the dead one o'er. 
Had features that grim Omar bore, 
The shagging brows and eyes of jet, 
That seem'd intent on plunder set, 
There the same large hooked nose appear'd, 
And same long sable, shaggy beard, 
The same curly hair of darkest dye. 
Same narrow forehead sharp and high : 
All to Omar strong semblance bore. 
E'en the garb the murderer wore. 
On this scene then on Omar's face, 
Oft, oft her ej-es the maid did place ; 
The longer did the twain she view, 
Still more and more the semblance grew, 
Until her thoughts towards Omar flow'd. 
As to the wretch the painting show'd. 
Yet the while, her voice with lively sound. 
Mingled in all the talk around : 
She laughed and smiled at joke and jest, 
And seem'd all lively as the rest. 
For Omar had full much to tell, 
Though most was lies that from him fell, 
Of what around the world he'd seen, 
Of scenes in which he'd actor been, 
And some, all so ludicrous, I ween, 
That to have heard him talk the while. 
Had made a dying hermit smile. 
Swift time sped on, and hours flew, 
The time for bed and slumber grew. 
Yet, still the tongue of Omar rung, 
And forth its tales of wonder flung. 
As though perpetual motion strung — 



190 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 

Each sinew of his l.ying tongue. 
The cocks without for morning crow'd, 
Yet still the tales of Omar flow'd. 
Within his chair old Roger slept, 
His snore with Omar chorus kept. 
But Mosman and his rosy child. 
Attentive heard the stories wild, 
And Omar fleeting time beguiled, 
'Till morning o'er the mansion smiled. 

XX. 

High on the mansion's level roof, 
From every list'ning ear aloof, 
Near the lofty spire and vane, 
That looked afar o'er field and plain, 
O'er river, mountain, rock and wood, 
George Mosman and his daughter stood 
The sun was rising o'er the world, 
And gliding clouds round mountains curl'd. 
Beneath his all enlivening ray 
Nature below them smiling lay, 
Orchards, wheat fields and tasseled corn, 
Glow'd to the earl}^ beams of morn. 
O'er pastures that the eye surve^^ed, 
Vast herds of sheep and cattle strayed, 
A mighty landscape all of green. 
Fair as any on earth, I ween, 
With streams sweeping vast fields between, 
Far as man's eye could view were seen. 
A smile o'er Mosman's features played, 
And long it o'er his visage strayed 
As all he did in silence scan ; 
" Daughter," at length he thus began. 
" Since your old lover has arrived. 
And I suppose will soon be wived, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 191 

Show me on what spot of that land, 

You would pi-efer your home to stand, 

For stately mansion I must rear — • 

For you and him to dwell in there." 

Upon the father gazed his child, 

With face that beam'd surprise all wild. 

The color from her features flew, 

And ghastly pallor o'er them grcAv, 

Sternly her father's face she ejed, 

And darkly frowning thus replied. 

" Father, far sooner would I bound 

From here to yonder solid ground, 

It is full sixty feet, I ween. 

From where we stand to 3'onder green. 

Should I throw my form on yon grass, 

I'd be a lifeless, shapeless mass. 

But sooner would I do it now, 

Than Omar join in marriage vow. 

He is not like the youth of yore, 

That I did tenderl}^ adore : 

Now like that boy he no more seems, 

Than night resembles noon-day beams 

I feel an instinct strong as death, 

I feel it grow with every breath, 

It now throbs in m}'^ spirits core, 

And bids me shun him ever more. 

Thus father talk no more to me. 

For Omar's wife I'll never be. 

From where he came, let him go back, 

And never cross again my track, 

Why, now all this for him I feel, 

I do not know, so can't reveal, 

But stili when e'er I look on him, 

And view his visage wild and grim, 

Thrills of aversion through me sweep, 



i92 THE RHEI OF LYOLYNN. 

Bid me Avide distance from him keep." 
She ceased and one bright, ha^jpy smile 
Beam'd on the father's face the while, 
A kiss npon her cheek he laid, 
Seized her hand and thus answer made. 
" I thank my God the spell is dead, 
That all your love for him has fled. 
And never shall you Omar wed. 
Of life I'd sooner see yon shed. 
But daughter me a moment hear, 
And what I speak, breathe in no ear. 
Be not surprised at what I tell, 
And let it in you silent dwell. 

Strong hope to win 3^0 u as his wife, 

Is in his bosom throbbing rife, 
And when he asks j^ou him to wed 
Say nought, be silent as the dead. 
Nor 3'es, nor no, be your reply, 
But act 3'ou loving, coy and sly. 
Let him no sign of hatred see. 
But pla}^ the hypocrite for me, 
M}' reasons now for this my dear — 
To 3'Ou I cannot now make clear, 
Further than this which you shall hear, 
The heirs of Lyolynn are dead, 
At least such rumor Omar's spread. 
If 'tis true, I am now the heir. 
But I must prove my titles clear, 
For this I'll Lea and Omar need, 
So treat them foir in word and deed. 
Soon as I to the heirship speed, 
You shall of both be swiftly freed. 
Off with Lea I shall shortlj^ go, 
A.nd be awa^^ a week or so, 
Treat Omar in my absence well, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYXN. J 93 

But always near the servants dwell." 

He ceased, and kiss VI his daughter's face, 

Then left the roof with hasty pace. 



XXL 



On lightning wings the hours flew, 
And fast the past more boundless grew, 
Two weeks had Mosman been a.vfay, 
For him and Lea had left one day, 
But unto them, and them alone. 
Where they journied, 'twas only known, 
And through the garden every day. 
Did Omar and fair Alice stray. 
She oft to be his bride was asked, 
But she had all her feelings masked, 
Did all her father bade her do, 
And let the unloA'ed lover woo, 
With no, his soul she'd not riven, 
x^or yet had she promise given, 
Though he both at her had driven, 
For plain yes, or no, had striven. 
While through the garden paths they 

walked. 
And Omar of his friendship talked. 
And told her plainly soon as she. 
Agreed with him, his bride to be. 
Then by his aid all Lyolynn 
Her sire as his own should win. 
For unto him, and him alone. 
The fates of other heirs were known 
And when she swore to be his bride 
He'd prove where, and when those heirs 

had died. 
And not till then what e'er betide. 
And she had just to him replied 



194 THE HETR OF LYOLYNN. 

That when her sire as the heir — 

Without a doubt was proven clear — 

To every castle, hill and glen — 

She'd be his bride, and not 'till then. 

A heavy footstep reached tlieir ear 

As of a man approaching near, 

Adown the lawn their gaze they threw, 

Saw Peter Zurn who towards them drew. 

" Alice, 3'ou to the mansion go. 

Leave me now an hour or so 

I something from yon man must hear, 

I, wliile we talk wish 3' on not near. 

For 'twould not interest j^our eai\" 

Thus willi a smile grim Omar said. 

And moved towards Zurn with hasty tread. 

The maid into the mansion drew, 

Glad she was out of Omar's view. 

XXII. 

Near the river, far beyond the lawn, 

Had Omar and Peter Zurn withdrawn. 

Long had the twain conferring been 

Beneath a maple tall and green, 

That stood beside tlie flowing stream — 

And screen 'd them from the noonday beam 

Tlie sun shone warm, the da}^ was fair. 

And not a breeze disturbed the air, 

And all sweltering hot and still — 

Lay round them stream and field and hill. 

Time flew, the long shades of afternoon — 

Show'd that the eve was coming soon. 

And just had Peter Zurn agreed — 

If Omar paid a certain meed, 

And Mosman his sole friend in need 

Had no objections to the deed, 



THE HEIR OF LYCLYNN. 195 

He'd in his ship bear off apace — 

lanthe to a certain place, 

Omar just had named the spot and clime, 

Where 3'ellow fever raged the time. 

A child like her thrown 'midst that scourge, 

It would straight mingle in her blood, 

And would her in a week submerge 

Beneath death's cold and silent flood. 

To murder her would never do, 

And when shall cease lanthe's breath — 

She must be tended b}' a few — 

Who can in all times prove her death. 

And there were some, to Mosman friends , 

Who dwelt within that fatal clime, 

Who'd aid him work unto his ends — 

No matter what the deed or crime. 

They knew lanthe and her race, 

Though never had the child been there, 

But at her father's dwelling place 

Those friends of Mosman often were. 

Up to a few short months ago 

They had with Lockhart business wrought, 

Though to him, the}" did friendship show, 

They loathed him in their soul and thought, 

For he to them had evil brought. 

Them into speculations led, 

Which had of profit borne them nought, 

But heaped vast losses on their head. 

Now, unto these to bear the child 

Had Zurn agreed, and fix'd his paj^. 

And if she died not b}^ the fever wild, 

To end her in some other way. 

As this had by the twain been plann'd 

And they 'bout lanthe's death conferred, 

Behind a ridge of grassy land — 



196 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 

The tramp of coming steeds they heard, 

And riding swiftly, soon they see — 

George Mosman and old Roger Lea. 

And soon those riders drew their rein 

Beside the eager plotting twain, 

From horse to earth the horsemen drew, 

And each to each his greeting threw : 

And soon they knew that Zurn agreed — 

To make them of lanthe freed, 

The death-time of the child to speed, 

And Omar paid to him the meed. 

And there the four were plotting fomid. 

As shades of twilight close around. 

Then from their plotting they were stirr'd 

For coming horse-hoofs loud they heard 

And on a road unto their right, 

A horseman in wild rapid flight, 

Suddenly burst upon their sight, 

XXIII. 

A tall gate stood across the road, 
But o'er it the courser bore his load, 
Clear'd its high rail with one strong bound, 
And dashed along the dust}' ground, 
With foaming flanks, and flying rein. 
On, on the charger swept amain, 
With ears pricked, nostrils open spread, 
Like whirlwind up the road he fled, 
With foam his bit was whitened o'er, 
And wreathes of foam his body bore. 
His snow-white mane spread on the air — 
Like flag of truce seem'd flying there. 
Right in front of the plotting crew 
The gallant steed and rider drew. 
And halting thus said, " can you tell. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 197 

If here or not the Mosmans dwell." 
"They do," GeorgeMosman straight replied 
As he approached the horseman's side, 
A letter forth the horseman drew, 
Held the address to Mosman's view. 
" Know you the name that here is penn'd ?" 
, I do, he is to me a friend, 
And he doth tarry now with me." 
" Then that he gets it please to see 
The man who sends me with it here 
Said if to it there any answer were 
They would in person come, and so 
As it dark is growing, I must go." 
With this the horseman turn'd his steed, 
And left the place with tempest's speed. 
He reached the gate and o'er it flew. 
And soon was lost to Mosman's view. 

XXIV. 

To Omar was the letter sent. 
Swift he the paper open rent, 
And on the writing gazed intent. 
But so small was the writing there. 
And so dark had grown the atmosphere, 
He could not read what there was penn'd, 
So to the mansion all did wend, 
Soon stood he 'neath a glowing light. 
The letter held close to his sight, 
Seem'd the while like one in fix'd amaze, 
And these were the words that met his gaze. 
" To John Snowden, or Omar De Yaux, 
Or by whatever name he stalks. 
For many names he seems to bear, 
Which is his real one is not clear, 
I mean a heartless, brutal thief — 



198 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 

Who robbed the dead upon the reef, 

With shaggy beard and sable eyes, 

A villain just your form and size, 

Who plann'd the murder of a child, 

That is lanthe Lockhart styled, 

Who is the heir of Lyolynn, 

And shall her right dominions win, 

Yes, ever}^ castle, hill and plain, 

Throughout broad L3-olynn's domain, 

In spite of all that can be done, 

By any Omar 'neath the sun. 

I took the child from out the den, 

Where you concealed her with your men, 

She's safe 'mongst friends and kindred now, 

And so she shall remain, I trow ; 

I never was a sleep, but wide awake, 

When ever you and Roger spake. 

To what you said I listened well, 

And many horrid deeds can tell, 

That you've transacted grim and fell. 

But now on these I will not dwell. 

I bid 3'Ou fly to whence you came. 

And bury there your burning shame, 

Fly, fly this night, or j'ou shall feel — 

The fierce avenger's thirsty steel. 

Fly, fly to night, make no delay, 

Or 3'ou become the hangman'a prey. 

If 3^ou seek to know whence this came, 

Know then it comes from Castle Flame, 

And John Hunyadi is his name. 

Who did this letter pen and frame." 

XXV. 

Had the earth yawn'd, and earthquakes 
crashed, 



THE HEIR Of LYOLYNN. 199 

That mansion all to atoms dashed, 

Omar had not been startled more, 

Than when he read that letter o'er. 

He stood a moment still as death, 

Scarce seem'd to come or go his breath 

Against the wall was propped his head, 

All color from its visage fled, 

The fire of his eye seem'd dead, 

As though life it no longer fed. 

At length he from his silence broke. 

As though he from the grave awoke. 

He with his hand smoothed down his hair, 

And straight put on a livel}^ air. 

Back to his face in sudden flood 

That instant rushed the bounding blood. 

The lustre of his eyes flew back, 

And shone like flame those orbs of black. 

Soon to his side old Roger drew, 

His gaze upon ihe writing threw, 

For Omar held it to his view. 

And swift its import Roger knew. 

Apart they moved from all the rest: 

And thus each other they address 'd, 

But so low whispered was each word. 

By the rest no syllable was heard. 

Though Mosman watched the twain the 
while. 

In secret eyed each frown or smile. 

On them his eye askance was cast, 

Though loud to Zurn he talked and fast. 

XXVI. 

I thought, said Lea, 'twould come to this, 
Or something would go soon amiss. 
For a man like you to waste your time. 



200 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

As you have done, is downright crime 
You've been wooing the hist two w^eeks — 
A maid that's full of Avhims and freaks, 
Instead of doing what ^-ou ought, 
Which would have hoard to Loth us brought, 
Curse on her e3^es and dimpled cheeks — 
Her face a thorough fool bespeaks. 
From her haste forth this very night, 
And ere the sky with morn be light ; 
Go, reach the cavern in the glen, 
Gather there, straight all our men, 
And 'morrow eve before the light — 
Of morn shall gild the mountain height, 
On Castle Flame a foray make, 
And from the hold lanthe take, 
Bring her forth, hap what ever may, 
E'en should you have to smite or slay," 
Answered Omar, " Come you along 
And nought I'm sure will then go wrong, 
For if beside me you remain, 
All will be shortly right again." 
" This night I cannot go with you, 
To-morrow many rents are due, 
And I have bade my tenants all 
To come and pay me at this hall : 
But Zurn I trow with 3'ou will go. 
Each I'll lend a steed, tell him so. 
Than walk, I think he'd sooner ride, 
And here all night he will not bide, 
I'll go forth, with him gear a steed, 
You follow too, and make good speed." 
This said, wdth Zurn he left the hall. 
Nor paused until he reached the stall. 
The saddles on the steeds were cast. 
And soon the girths were buckled fast, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 201 

The bridles on the steeds were placed 
And from the stalls led forth in haste. 

XXVII. 

Meanwhile his daughter to the hall, 
For Omar's sake, did Mosman call; 
On the hall-wa} 's white marble floor — 
Near the threshold of the loft}^ door, 
Stood Omar and the rosy maid, 
Her fair hand in his own he laid, 
Thrice did he kiss her snow-white hand, 
And thus commenced with accents bland 
" Some business calls me forth to night. 
But ere a week shall take its flight 
I will be back, and then I trow, 
You'll be more loving far than now, 
Your sire then as heir I'll prove 
To every thing in Lyolj^nn, 
All, all from out his path I'll move. 
So he the boundless wealth shall win. 
Then you are mine, till then adieu. 
And keep to me 3'our promise true." 
He said and pass'd from out the door. 
Trod down the graveled pathway fast. 
To where his name did Royer roar. 
Swift on the steed his form he cast, 
Amidst the night from sight he pass'd, 
And Alice never saw him more. 



202 THE IlKlIt Oi' LYULi'NN. 



PART V. 



All night along a darksome road — 
Their steeds did Zurn and Omar goad, 
O'er field and wold, by bush and fen 
O'er mountain and through rocky glen 
In silence rode these gloomy men. 
At length they cross'd a wild morass, 
And rode into a narrow pass ; 
On each side, grass, brier and wood. 
In one dense mass together stood. 
And here they paused awhile to feed 
Each on the grass his panting steed. 
Along the East the sky was gray, 
Gave tokens of the coming day. 
And while they paused thus Omar spake, 
As though the silence drear to break. 
" For the last four hours past have we — 
Rode through the lands of Roger Lea, 
What a vast wilderness he owns. 
Of field, wold, fen and hills of stones, 
Yet if we ride ten miles or more. 
We'd scarcely pass his border o'er, 
All just such dismal wilds as these, 
Of hills and glens, fen, bush and trees, 
As oft I've o'er them pass'd I've thought. 
He might far better land have bought." 
"And had he," quickly Zurn replied, 
" He'd have no place for men to hide, 
Who oft have risked their life and limb, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 208 

And robb'd and stole and worked for him, 
Why, all these rolling lands around, 
With robbers and with caves abound, 
Here villains of all climes can flee, 
And here in safety ever be, 

If with their hoard they amply fee 

The agents of old Roger Lea ; 

And here such men as you and me 

Could hide and never prison see, 
If we some deed should ever do, 
That made the law our steps pursue • 
Why, here within this narrow pass. 
Amongst these bushes and this grass, 
A dozen men could take their post, 
And stop the passage of a host. 

Scatter it in as wild a flight 

As e'er was seen by day or night. 

Some years ago a deed I did, 

That is amongst the laws forbid. 

Soon from its clutches swift I slid, 

And safely here for years I hid ; 

For the officers of the law. 

Hold all these wilds and caves in awe 

They know that outlaws thickly dwell, 

In every glen, in every fell. 

Their precious lives they too much fear 

To risk in search of felons here. 

From earliest historic times 

Here have thronged villains from all climes, 

The fiercest and most cruel men 

That ever trod in out-law's den, 
And women of the vilest stamp 
That ever dwelt in ruffian's camp. 
All, all have left some trace behind, 
Some marks of them all round we find, 



204 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

On every hill a breast-work stands, 
Of old reared there by robbers' hands, 
From behind which they fiercely fought, 
The men who them for crimes have sought, 
And on each hill, in every glen — 
Is seen some trace of out-law's den, 
So thick around their marks w'e find. 
These wilds recall unto the mind 
A thorn-bush huge that doth appear 
Beside a narrow thoroughfare 
By which through all the ages vast 
Unnumbered flocks of sheep have pass'd, 
Each flock as it Las passage made. 
Through the strong foliage strayed. 
Its tufts of wool has left behind, 
Which to the stems most closel}' bind, 
Nor storms however wild they bray 
Those tufts of wool shall rend away. 
There firm remain through coming timt 
To tell that sheep have trod that clime, 
Far back, and here, and to the sea. 
These lands belong to Roger Lea. 
And with felons he is in league, 
Knows all their cunning and intrigue. 
And here by his consent they dwell. 
When they abroad are known too w^ell. 
That is when statutes chase them hard — 
These wilds become their safety-guard. 
But say, De Yaux, I saw last night — 
You turn'd all ghastly pale and white. 
When you that horseman's letter read. 
Brought he tidings of friend just dead ? 
If so, say was he known to me ? 
For fain I'd know who it can be." 



THE HEIR OF LYOLTNN. 
II. 

" No," said Omar, "that letter told 

A tale I should to you unfold, 

You remember a sleepy hind, 

You on the reef with tis did find, 

I think Hun3adi was his name, 

With yellow hair and sluggish frame," 

" I do," said Zurn, "and know him well, 

And all about his life can tell, 

But all his history, I trow. 

Is far too long to tell you now, 

No more gigantic man you'll find, 

Alike in energy and mind, 

What he wills to do, he does it sure, 

Nor cares what toil he must endure. 

I saw him once a combat fight. 

His foe was just his size and height, 

In choice of weapons, swords they chose, 

Right nobly met the eager foes, 

And as they did in battle close, 

All dread the clang of steel arose. 

For both the men were skilled alike— 

To feint, to guard, to thrust, to strike. 

Both well were taught the sword to wield, 

To each 'twas weapon and a shield, 

To swift bound forward or recoil. 

And blows to parry and t'o foil. 

Right fearful was the strife, I ween. 

That there between those men was seen. 

Hunyadi's sword first tasted blood. 

And fast gushed out the crimson flood. 

Some how with his sword his foe's he 

caught. 
And from his hand his weapon brought, 
Toss'd with his own the blade in air, 



205 



206 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And left his foeman swordless there. 

Though then his foe he could have thrust, 

And lifeless laid him in the dust, 

Yes, with his dagger stretched him dead, 

He did not so, he forward sped, 

And strove to staunch the crimson tide, 

That gushed from out his foeman's aide. 

Though they had hours fighting been, 

Scarce scratch o'er his form was seen, 

I tell you Omar you are blind — 

To take him for a sleepy hind, 

No better swordsman you can find, 

Nor man of finer form nor mind. 

But he likes to go 'mongst felons well, 

And often does amongst them dwell, 

And some the grimmest and most fell. 

And gets them of their deeds to tell. 

But never thief was caged through him. 

Nor felon climb'd the gallows grim. 

Every thief, felon in the land — 

Would trust, and aid him heart and hand. 

The cause why he 'mongst these delights. 

Is that he many stories writes, 

Which are with theft and murder rife ; 

And much of character and life — 

He finds amongst this class of men. 

Which profit much his mind and pen. 

I tell you he is a devil trim. 

All full of action, life, and whim. 

As yet show'd human form and limb : 

But how came you to speak of him." 

III. 

Here Omar silent stood a while, 

His face show'd more of frown than smile, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 207 

Though Zurn's words he but half believed, 
A hea\y sigh his bosom heaved, 
Relieved of this, he thus began. 
" Then I'm mistaken in the man, 
But how e'er good with sword he be. 
He is no better there than me, 
This if a chance e'er comes, you'll see. 
But to the letter now once more. 
Here you had better read it o'er. 
There is enough of light, I trow, 
For you to read the writing now.'' 
With this he gave it unto Zurn 
Who did its import soon discern. 
And silent, thoughtful stood a while, 
Then thus began with seeming smile. 
"Did I not tell j^ou he was such ? 
You'll have to watch this devil much ; 
But we can all his cunning foil, 
And rob him of his cherished spoil, 
No fitter place than Castle Flame, 
To carry on the deadlj^ game. 
The ocean is so close at hand, 
And hill and dale and woody land. 
My vessel now a league from there 
Floats anchored on the waters clear. 

You, there to night a foray make. 

And from the hold the infant take. 

And bring her straight into my barge, 

When once I have her in my charge, 

No fear that she will get atlarge, 

To do the thing right, aid you'll need, 

This will be easy won for meed. 

For men are ready bought or sold. 

To aid in tasks that's not too bold, 

It matters not how base the deed, 



208 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 

So they clear the law, gain the meed. 

Collect your men this very day, 

Now, half the meed to each one pay, 

Give surety to pay the rest — 

Soon as the child 's by you possessed, 

'Twill give to all a fervent zest — 

Make them more eager for the quest. 

Take there 3'our men this very day, 

And make no tarrj" nor delay ; 

But haste and get upon your wa}', 

In ambush near the castle la}^ ; 

For nigh it is a brushy wood — 

Dense as ere jet on valley stood, 

And there you can in secret lie. 

With all your aid prepared and nigh, 

'Till night shall darken o'er the sky, 

Then make a sortie on the hold. 

But act through all discreet and bold. 

Bring out the child by force and might, 

E'en should 3-ou have to sla}^ and smite. 

Let every man be masked complete. 

So none shall know them that they meet. 

So that no one can ever swear — 

Now, nor j'ct m some coming year — 

Who were the parties fierce and bold, 

Who brought her captive from the hold. 

I know the law will chase us hard, 

'Gainst it we'll have to keep on gviard, 

For into donjon we'll be thrown — 

If that we did the deed 'tis known. 

I'll have a boat beside the shore, 

In which she can be wafted o'er 

Safe from the castle to my barge, 

Soon as you have her in your charge. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 
TV. 

Thus they conferred, and onward drew, 
Through woodlands that more denser grew, 
Thick as ere hill or valley knew, 
And o'er earth ceaseless shadow threw, 
Rode on through scrub-oak, elders, yew. 
Until a log-hut rose in view. 
And with vast vines this dismal bield 
Was almost from the eye concealed. 
With creepers and with epiphyte— 
The log-hut o'er was covered quite, 
A perfect network there they made 
And wrapt the hut in endless shade. 

And o'er it gorgeous flowers grew 

Of varied form and shape and hue. 

And from this mound of fragrant bloom 

The air was loaded with perfume. 
This hut, some sixty years before- 
Had Roger built and vined it o'er, 
And oft in it he would reside, 
When from the world he need to hide : 
Then 'twas his home, his safe retreat, 
No spot on earth to him so sweet. 
The name he gave it years of yore, 
Still to that very day it bore. 

And over all his lands around 

Its name was a familiar sound 
To every woman, man and child. 
Who out-laws roam'd his lonely wild. 
" The Bower of Bliss." he named this bield. 
Where it stood was but to thieves revealed. 
Who to Lea brought their plunder there, 
Who of their spoils aye had his share, 
And while away it chanced he strayed, 
To his agent there his share was paid. 



209 



210 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 

That agent was a hoary crone, 
So lean, scarce more than skin and bone; 
Matilda "was the only name 
Given by thieves to this old dame, 
Nor was her real name ever known 
Save unto her and Lea alone. 
Strange tales 'bout her history tells, 
Of witchcraft, magic, charms and spells, 
Gathered fiom every creed and clime, 
Day and night it says she past her time, 
Dreaded was she by all the men 
Who lurked about old Roger's den. 
They fear'd she'd work some cursed charm. 
Would bring to them eternal harm. 
Some told of things that she could do. 
And swore that every word was true-. 
On rocks they'd seen her deal a blow, 
And straight would gushing waters flow. 
Some had seen her walk midst flame. 
And all its heat and fury tame. 
While at her heels terrific came 
An awful form, like dragon's frame, 
And many deeds before unknown, 
They told about this hoary crone. 
Those who best knew her said that she 
Was sister to old Roger Lea. 
But how this be I need not tell. 
This I will, she did his business well : 
In a cave 'neath that bield was stored 
Of gold and silver, mighty hoard. 
And not a thief within that land 
Oar it would dare to la}^ his hand. 
Omar drew the latch, oped the door, 
And pass'd the twain the threshold o'er; 
All humble look'd within and poor, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 211 

With dirty walls and sanded floor. 

The place was almost dark as night, 

But one small window let in light, 

And in one corner of the room — 

That was but dust and filth and gloom, 

There la}', of straw, a little heap, 

On it was Bayard fast asleep. 

Sound he felept, and so loud he snor'd, 

It seera'd within a tempest roar'd, 

Omar dealt him man^^ a blow, 

And water in his face did throw, 

Shook his huge form, and jerked each limb, 

Ere he could rouse that negro grim. 



Bayard woke from his slumbers sound, 

And all bewildered gazed around. 

His eye on Omar's face he cast. 

And to his feet he bounded fast. 

Like some tall column seem'd his frame 

His head unto the ceiling came 

And full a head and shoulders good — 

In height he o'er the others stood. 

His brawny limbs and swelling breast^ 

Giant's ponderous strength confess 'd. 

His form seem'd like some pillar grand. 

Upon which a tower might stand ; 

Or like some black monster seem'd the man! 

" Oh, my master," he thus began, 

" Two dreary weeks ago or more, 

Conna here a story bore — 

That ships lay stranded on the shore, 
And there my aid you needed sore, 

1 believed his base l^ing tale, 

And straight away o'er hill and dale, 



212 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

For three long miles I sped me fast, 

Until on seas mine eye I cast, 

And all along the shore I wound, 

But 3-ou nor stranded ship I found ; 

Then I believed the wretch had lied, 

Back to the Bower of Bliss I hied. 

When I came here, alas ! I found — 

Your lady with strong fetters bound. 

And from her learned, the sleepy bard 

That on the reef looked poor and hard, 

And dull and stupid as a sard, 

Had hither come, and mischief wrought, 

And had away lanthe brought ; 

Then straight o'er hill and glen I sought, 

But not a trace of them I've caught. 

I have toil'd hard, two weeks, I trow, 

Nor have laid down to rest 'till now." 

Here Zurn broke in, " Omar, I thought — ■ 

The horseman who the letter brought, 

Resembled very much a man — 

I with you on the reef did scan." 

" Yes, 3^es, by heavens, you are right, 

'Twas Bracklinn, but when he met my 

sight — - 
Where to place the man I did not know, 
Yes, yes, he was Bracklinn, it is so. 
I see we're on all sides beset. 
And straight to work we now must get. 
But we shall surely beat them yet, 
With all their fraud I'll make them fret. 
Bayard speed 3'ou to Johnson's glen, 
And pause not 'till you reach his den, 
Tell him to gather Roger's men. 
And bring them quick from hill and fen, 
Ere noon unto the Bower of Bliss, 
Now speed you forth, and tell him this." 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 213 

VI. 

Sped Bayard forth to Johnson's vale, 
As flies the thunder-cjoud on gale, 
When black it moves o'er hills and dale, 
And soon will bring the storm and hail. 
A trap door in the sanded floor, 
That was with rushes covered o'er, 
Up on its hinges Omar bore, 
Did down a narrow staircase turn, 
Close at his heels strode Peter Zurn; 
Then did through a dark passage grope, 
Which scarcely to their forms gave scope'; 
Here fifty yards they strode and more, 
And utter darkness all things wore. 
At length they reach an iron door, 
Through time and damp was rusted o'er : 
A knock on it grim Omar gave. 
Which echoed through the rocky cave, 
Then swiftly came a sudden jar 
As moving of a bolt and bar, 
And one within straight oped the door, 
And pass'd the twain the threshold o'er. 
Again the hinges screaked and jarr'd, 
And soon the door was shut and barr'd. 
And there was shown a spacious room, 
One sole dim light dispell 'd the gloom. 
One called Osman oped the door, 
A squalid negro bent and hoar, 
His breast and arms no garments wore, 
But prints of horrid gashes bore : 
Some wretch who had foul murders done, 
And hidden here did gallows shun. 
A.nd bowed he low with humble air, 
As he received this statel}^ pair. 
Towards him his gaze did Omar turn: 



214 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

" Where is Ellenore," he question stern. 

Then answered he in lowly tone, 

" In the saloon sir, and alone." 

" Ye bide here a while," Omar said, 

And left the room with hasty tread; 

Then through a narrow, winding path, 

Dark as was Omar's hate and wrath, 

Dark as the cloud of thunder-storm 

When no lightnings gild its form, 

He onward groped his weary way, 

At length he saw a taper's ray. 

The passage sudden turn'd, and soon, 

He trod within a large saloon. 

The lights were lit, the spaciovis hall 

Had paintings limn'd on every wall. 

And on the tables in that room 

Did piles of gold and silver loom. 

The massive urns of silver bright 

Shone glowing to the taper's light. 

And solid bars of shining gold , 

Could everywhere the eye behold- 

And vast piles of glittering coin — 

Did in the glowing splendor join. 

Yea, all o'er each long spacious board 

In heaps was placed the glowing hoard, 

And 'long the floor 'twas nobly stored 

In piles both massive' high and broad. 

It seem'd the wealth of all the world 

Was there within that cavern hurl'd. 

Here midway of the spacious floor, 

Was Omar met by Ellenore. 

A mournful frown her visage wore. 

As ere to Omar'e eye it bore; 

And as he thought her hand to grasp, 

She sudden drew it from his clasp. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 215 

Fierce he questioned, "What means all this? 

What within the Bower of Bliss 
. Has so much gone with jou amiss, 

That I no greeting share, nor kiss ? 

By heavens, let me hear it all' 

Or I will brain you on yon wall." 

" Do it, do it, then my poor brain. 

May be freed of its woe and pain, 

For George Mosman and Roger Lea, 

Have told of all your deeds to me." 

" When told they you." "Two days ago." 

" By heavens, it is really so. 

But yester-night I saw them both. 

To this I'll take my solemn oath, 
And not one word they told to me 
That they were here, or did you see. 
But what about me have they told ? 
Hide nought, but all to me unfold." 
" About you Lea said scarce a word 
'Twas from Mosman the most I heard. 
He said that you had sent him here 
To take lanthe 'neath his care 
But here's the note he gave me now 
Which will explain the whole, I trow." 
She said and from her breast she drew— 
A scroll which she to Omar threw 
open the scroll he swiftly spread- 
And thus aloud he hoarsely read. 
Dear Ellenore. Give up the heir 
To him who shall this order bear 
The bearer will George Mosman be 
Accompanied with Roger Lea. 
Who'll prove this order came from me 
Farewell, before a week goes round 
I shall near Ellenore be found. 



216 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN 

Yours unto death. De Vaux. 

The face 
Of Omar pallid grew apace. 
Upon the floor the letter fell ; 
His breast began to throb and swell, 
Reeling like one about to fall — 
He propped himself against the wall. 
At length he said — " Some demon fell 
Has forged my writing all too well, 
Though 'tis my style from end to end, 
No single word by me was penn'd. 
And through this, if here the child had 

been, 
To them you'd given her, I ween ?" 
"Of course I would, who could have thought 
But your own hand that letter wrought ; 
Ten years 1 have 3'our writing known. 
And would have sworn this were your own.'' 
" What said they when they found the heir 
Had been taken from out your care ?" 
" George Mosman storm 'd and tore his hair, 
And seem'd all frantic with despair. 
And loud with curses fill'd the air. 
And fiercely unto Lea he said — ■ 
That 3'ou should ne'er his Alice wed. 
Unless 3-0U back the child should win, 
And make him heir of Lyolynn. 
Now Omar tell me frank and free. 
Mean 3'ou to get divorce from me — 
And with another wed ? Or more, 
Have one better loved than Ellenore ? 
Omar, for you I left my home. 
Where I in happiness did roam, 
Have gone with you o'er land and foam, 
Have through many a peril pass'd. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 217 

And 3'et I've loved, you to the last. 
And is it so ? Oh ! can it be, 
That you'll ungrateful prove to me ? 
Out with the truth, if it be so, 
I set you free, and bid you go." 
" The truth is this, my Elleuore, 
I loved a maid in 3'ears of yore, 
And still I do that maid adore, 
Than you, a million times fur more. 
For her, I cannot tell my love, 
'Tis far the reach of speech above. ^ 
Her image all absorbs my soul — 
With feeling vast, beyond control. 

And I have loved ner since a child — 

With passion deep, and strong and wild. 

That love as I have older grown — 

Has mingled in both thew and bone 

Become a part of all my form. 

And e'en the blood that keeps it warm, 

I hope the time will soon be sped, 

Will see me with this angel wed. 

It's been the hope of all my life — 

To Alice Mosman make my wife ; 

And 'till shall be fulfill'd this hope, 

I shall through sin and darkness grope. 

She's the sole one can change my soul, 

And lure me out of sin's control, 

With her to win heaven I may hope, 

Without her I through hell shall grope. 

And Ellenore, though ever you 

To me have loving been and true, 

And it had only been your due — 

If I with all the love I knew — 

Had only worshiped at your shrine 

And loved you with a love divine ; 



21S THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Yes, only sought to make you mine, 
Had liappy strove to make your life, 
And pleasures spread around you rife. 
But truth I'll tell what e'er befall : 
Ellenore, I never loved at all. 
With me, I only let you go. 

Because you seem'd to Ioa e me so 

That you to grief would fall a prej' , 

If by my side you did not sta}'. 

Divorce ! such thing I do not need ; 

I am already of you freed ; 

You from the first I have misled, 

To you, I was not ever wed. 

The man that to your home I brought. 

Who was a minister you thought. 

Was but an out-law'd felon grim, 

Who never preached a psalm nor hymn, 

And this not binding is at all, 

And were it, I would burst its thrall." 

VII. 

An all sarcastic, scornful smile. 

Played o'er the woman's face the while 

Omar told of his tender flame 

For one who bore another name. 

But when to her grim Omar said, 

" You, Ellenore I never wed" 

And did of an out-law'd felon speak, 

The smile that instant left her cheek, 

Fierce lightning's from her dark eyes 

glared, 
And straight she seized him by his beard 
" And dare you then," she fiercely cried, 
With voice that echoed far and wide — ■ 
" On me such foul dishonor bring, 



THE HEIR OF LTOLYNN. 219 

And call me what ? a nameless thing. 
Say is this true, or have yon lied ?" 
" 'Tis gospel truth " the brute replied. 
" Is it, then you this da}^ shall die." 
She said, and fiercer flashed her eye, 
Back from the man a space she drew, 
As though to take a keener view, 
Then like a tigress fierce and strong — 
That fearfully repaj^s the wrong. 
Cares not how many be her foes. 
But rushes on with them to close, 
And still the more they strike and goad, 
The fiercer are her blows bestowed. 
Like lightning at the man slie flew, 
And round his throat her hands she threw. 
And while she choked him, hard and fast 
His head against the wall she cast. 
One thud she gave which made the blood 
Gush from his head in ample flood. 
Nor from the woman's desperate hold 
Could he break, nor yet her hands unfold. 
Fainter and fainter came his breath, 
While grew his features pale as death, 
At last the woman's strength gave o'er, 
And she sank fainting to the floor, 
And not 'till then the woman's grasj). 
Could Omar from his neck unclasp. 
Blinded with blood and rage and j^ain, 
Right on her form he trod amain. 
Kicked her all o'er from heel to head, 
Then left her, thinking she was dead. 
Swift from the wall a light he caught, 
The room where he left Zurn he sought, 
Then swift they trod their backward way, 
To view of sun and sky and day. 



220 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

VIII. 

By this the sun had mounted high, 

The time of noon was drawing nigh, 

No sound of Johnson nor his men — 

Was heard along the bushy glen, 

Nor back to the Bower of Bliss 

Had Bayard come. " Something 's amiss 

Or he had hardly tarried so," 

To himself Omar muttered low. 

Apart from Zurn who sleeping lay 

Beneath some bush-oak's matted spray, 

Where tall rank weeds and grass grew 

round , 
And densely covered o'er the ground 1 
Beneath a poplar tall and A'ast, 
Himself at ease grim Omar cast, 
His thoughts were roaming far and fast — 
Adown the vistas of the past, 
The present, and the coming too. 
All rose and pass'd before his view ; 
They came and pass'd before his range — 
Like some vast panorama strange. 
Long, still he sat, as one stark dead, 
Not once had moved his hand nor head, 
Nor yet from him one single word 
Of faintest sound the air had stirr'd. 
At length he muttered faint and low, 
As if to give some feelings flow — 
Which he no longer could retain 
Within his breast of throbbing pain, 
But give them forth in sad refrain — 
From out their desolate domain. 
" Who would have thought that Roger Lea, 
Whose life I've saved on land and sea — 
Had done so foul a deed to me, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 221 

To have with one like Mosman join'd, 
And such a cunning letter coin'd. 
But for this outrage grim, I swear 

Ere to the past speeds forth a year 

He'll pay this deed most deadly dear. 
Curse on him and his niggard soul 
I'll get him yet in my control. 
And bring the traitor to his goal I 
And not a word within mine ear 
He breathed at all that he was here. 
He's treachery from head to feet, 
Yes, coward treachery complete. 
And Mosman, when his child I wed 
I'll lay the truckling traitor dead. 
Oh, welcome, welcome coming time, 
Speed on your chariot sublime, 
And haste the day, the time, the hour, 
These villains sink beneath my power. 

And her I love far more than life 

Shall be my partner and my wife 
For my poor heart and brain and eye, 
Can in the future nought descrj^, 
But her bewitching face and form 
The beaming iris of a storm.,' 



IX. 



While thus he spake he heard a moan 
Thrice before had he heard a groan 
This time it came so faint and low 

And all such little life did show 

It startled him and all around 
He looked to see whence came the sound. 
At length where Zurn in slumber laid, 
With hasty feet his search he made. 
The shading vines that o'er him grew 



222 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And such dense shade upon him threw 
From off the sleepers tace he drew, 
And there a horror met his view, 
That even made his blood run cold, 
For around Zurn's neck fold on fold 
A serpent scaley, black and vast — 
His horrid coil had tightl}^ cast, 
And choked the sleeper stark and dead, 
Zurn's mouth was all wide open spread, 
And in it lay the serpent's head. 
Then swift his dagger Omar drew. 
And did in twain the serpent hew ; 
And as he cut the folds away — 
Drawn all so tight and hard were they 
Sharp, harsh they crack with ceaseless bray. 
And far and wide flew slimy spray. 
But Peter Zurn, he breathed no more. 
His pulse no sign of action wore, 
The hue of death his visage bore : 
Vainly his breathing to restore — 
In his face did Omar water pour, 
His daj's of ruthless crime were o'er, 
And his broad face all free of beard 
Dread, ghastly with death's hues appeared, 
For long grim seams and scars it bore, 
Ta'en in his many frays of 3'ore. 
Now, now, he thought, it will not do 
For Roger's men this corpse to view, 
It may their courage tame to night, 
If the^^ behold this grisly sight ; 
It may some superstition breed. 
Of which I cannot make them freed 
Though I should give them double meed 
To aid me in my time of need. 
Then o'er the corpse some weeds he threw, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 223 

Completely hid the corpse from view, 
So where it lay he scarcely knew. 
Then from the spot he swiftly drew. 



And towards the vine-clad hut he strode, 
Scarce had he reached the lone abode, 
Than Ba^-ard and some sixty men 
Came gliding towards him from tlie glen. 
Soon near Omar De Yaux they drew, 
Where he could take of each a view ; 
'Till then his gaze he never threw — 
On such a strange and motley crew. 
Some there, were tall and broad and grim, 
Strong, tough as oaks in form and limb. 
Their brawny arms and bosoms bare, 
Showed what vast strength was sleeping 

there. 
And some were active, 3'oung and bold, 
O'er whom scarce twent}^ 3- ears had roll'd. 
And some were feeble, bent and old. 
With hair white as the frost on wold. 
Who tottered as they moved along. 
But showed in 3'outh they had been strong. 
While some stood in their glowing prime, 
With form and face unworn b^' time. 
And every shape and shade and hue. 
Of eyes that ever mankind knew, 
The red, the black, the gray, the blue. 
Where seen amongst that motley crew. 
The brown, the violet, the white. 
Yea, every color met the sight. 
And every shade and hue of hair — 
Amongst those villains standing there — 
Was witness'd waving on the air. 



224 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Johnson, who came the first in view, 
And was the leader of that crew. 
Was a man of medium size. 
With blood-red hair and hazel eyes, 
With round face, snub nose, forward chin, 
With freckles o'er his sun-burn'd skin, 
His lips were thick, his mouth was wide, 
But pearly teeth were there espied. 
His forehead did real low appear, 
Perhaps 'twas overgrown wath hair. 
His form thick set, comisact and strong, 
There shaped for strength was nothing 

wrong. 
For his huge arms and brawnj' breast, 

; The strength of Hercules confess'd. 

■ And all the form the eye did greet, 

Down from his head unto his feet, 
All seem'd together put so neat — 
To in liarmon}^ so perfect meet — 
He seem'd fleetness and strength complete. 
Showed he could stand all wear and tear. 
And all fatigue that man can bear. 
His hand was strong, his heart was bold, 
And dearly loved to quest for gold. 
And fain for it at midnight hour, 
Would scale a castle's tallest tower, 
And bravely face all odds within — 
If there was any hoard to win. 
Read}^ was he by day or night 
For any plunder, broil or fight, 
Cared not how desperate the deed 
So he was sure of ample meed. 
But those who knew him best declared — 
Some virtues in his soul ajjpeared, 
That he possess'd far less of guile — 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 225 

Than many of his stamp and stjde, 
That he ne'er kicked his foes when down, 
Xor took from them their last sole crown. 
And those he robb'd, he never slew, 
Unless they did his path pursue ; 
Nor even then he'd do such deed — 
Unless the}^ first had made him bleed, 
And often even then his mind — 
Would him forbearing prove and kind, 
Inside of jails he'd often seen, 
And all about such life did ween. 
Years had he worked upon the sea, 
And this was Avhere he first knew Lea, 
Who'd so admired his form and plan, 
He made him straiglit his foremost man. 
Brought him to The Bower of Bliss, 
Schooled him in all he was amiss, 
'Till a real robber, perfect, trim, 
For day or night, he made of him. 
To watch the sea and all its shore. 
Which but three miles lay from his door. 
And plunder ships that there might strand, 
Was task assigned to his command* 
B}'' night and day to watch tlie sea, 
Were his orders direct from Lea ; 
And these he seldom disobey'd, 
Unless he was most amply paid. 

XI. 

As he strode to Omar, a smile 

Played o'er his beardless face the while, 

And thus to Omar he began. 

" Here we are, ready — every man 

To go with you on any quest — 

Provided I and all the rest 



226 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN 

That here 3-011 see around me stand 
First shall have half their meed in hand, 
This I take and deal as I think best." 
Then straight his hand grim Omar press'd, 
From head to heel the leader e^a^d, 
Then f:om the rest they drew aside, 
Swift towards the hut with flowers pied. 
Then quick within the door they hied, 
They close the door with sullen bang, 
And far and wide its echo rang, 
And within The Bower of Bliss 
One full hour they staid, I wis. 
To tell what therein pass'd, I trow, 
Were all too long, and needless now : 
But Johnson unto all agreed, 
To him was paid an ample meed. 
With fervent zest was all prepared. 
And forward, march, was soon declared. 

XII, 

O'er woody hill, through bushy glen. 

O'er deep morass, and reedy fen, 

By out-law's cave and robber's den. 

Strode on that band of armed men. 

O'er many roaring torrents' arch 

Did they in utter silence march. 

All amongst them was stillness dread, 

Except their footstep's heavy tread, 

And this at times was only heard. 

When o'er bald solid rocks they stirr'd — 

Upon the mountain's craggy ridge. 

And o'er some torrent's quaking bridge. 

Whose waters strong and clear and free — 

They could in roaring rivers see, 

Which join 'd below in mighty mass, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 227 

And swept along each narrow pass, 
From whence vast, ceaseless cataracts 
Hushed in roaring, ponderous tome, 
And spread o'er seas their boundless tracts 
Of never ending snow-white foam. 

XIII. 

The shades of night were deep'ning fast, 
Dense o'er hill and glen were cast, 
As nigh to Castle Flame they pass'd. 
A mist with folds all dense and vast 
Came creeping upward from the sea, 
And gathered round the castle free. 
But they could see its towers loom 
Huge amidst the gathei'ing gloom. 
Hard by the sea that lofty hold 
Stood high upon a rocky wold. 
Between it and the boundless sea 
Stood here and there a stately tree. 
And there stood one of lofty frame 
Had blasted been b}' lightning's flame, 
'Twas years ago the bole did show 
Since it had felt the tingeing glow 
"Whose all destro3'ing cloud-born spark 
Had come and left it standing stark. 
There no life was seen, all its bark 
"Was rotten, brittle, dry and dark, 
Nor left of life one single mark. 
Close to the castle's lofty wall. 
Stood this dead timber vast and tall. 
Nigh to a windoAV long and wide, 
That in the castle's wall was sj^ied 
Did this tall lifeless tree abide. 
The casement was wide open there 
Through it fann'd the evening air. 



228 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 

To it through the black folds of night, 
Which almost hid all things from sight, 
With cautious step did Ba^'ard stride. 
And by its trunk on earth did hide. 
Time sped on, it was growing late, 
Yet at its trunk did Bayard wait, 
'Till he no voice nor sound nor din. 
Could hear that castle's wall within, 
Until he thought in slumber sound 
The inmate of the hold were bound. 
Then did he e^^e the timber straight, 
Shook it to see if such huge freight 
As his form made, 'twould bear the weight. 
His arms around the bole he cast, 
His heels were shod with grapples vast, 
These he plunged in it deep and fast. 
And as in spite of storm and blast 
The skillful sailor climbs the mast. 
Up the bole, sable Bayard pass'd. 
Nigh to the window soon he drew. 
Where he of it could take full view ; 
Its sash and doors all open were, 
Tree welcome gave the misty air — 
To staircase, hall and passage there. 
But there did he with sorrow see, 
The window from his grasp was free, 
That too far from it lean'd the tree 
Though the space it and wall between, 
Right narrow nigh the ground was seen. 
Yet ere it to the casement rear'd, 
A sudden lean in it appeared. 
And right there made so wide a space — 
His hand on sill he could not place. 
But he who had that climbing dared 
Was always for a balk prepared ; 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 229 

Swift from Ms breast he dreyr a thong, 

That was all limber, tough and long, 

And many a sharp iron prong — 

Was at the end made fiist and strong. 

Then these within the sill he threw, 

In it the prongs secure he drew. 

With hands and feet that tightly clung, 

His form upon the thong he swung; 

By it suspended in the air — 

To and fro swung a moment there. 

Then swiftly up the thong he drew, 

His body o'er the sill he threw, 

And in the window pass'd from view. 

XIV. 

Within a clump of cedar wood, 

That rearward of the castle stood 

Some hundred yards from it and more 

And the ground covered densely o'er; 

Omar and his desperate band, 

Had ta'en in silence there their stand. 

The castle all was wrapt in gloom, 

And silence dread as of the tomb; 

The while they watched it, Omar's blood 

Rushed through his form in bounding flood; 

And 'midst the silence still as death, 

His throbbing heart and panting breath, 

Was the sole sound that Johnson's ear 

Could in the utter darkness hear. 

At length as though he tired grew 

At standing still so long, he drew 

To Omar and thus whispered low. 

*' Had we not better forward go, 

And into j-onder castle break, 

And straight from it this infant take ? 



230 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Night is speeding, 'twill soon be clay, 

We'd better liaste the child away." 

" K'o" said Omar "no, just wait a while, 

'Twill be long yet ere morning smile, 

Bayard must in yon castle be, 

Or long ere this we would him see. 

Some entrance there he must haA'e won, 

If he has, all will soon be done; 

For if he there the infant find. 

Right soon he will her gag and bind. 

And from some window to the ground — 

He will her bring all safe and sound — 

With cords he for that purpose brought, 

This done, the rest is easy wrought. 

Bayard knows every winding stair, 

Hole and room in 3' on castle there 

All from its cellar to its roof, 

And his eye is to darkness proof. 

'Twill not keep him from her aloof, 

For five and thirty 3'ears and more, 

He office in that castle bore ; 

He was the footman of its lord. 

Who own'd all these dominions broad ; 

And liked right well was he by him, 

But one daj" Bayard took the whim — 

To kiss one of the female throng — 

Who did to his lord's race belong. 

Whose mind was scarcely over strong. 

And had for Bayard love conceived, 

And him a perfect saint believed ; 

They kept the maiden housed too much. 

Or she had hardly fancied such. 

Of men she saw no other form — 

On whom to place her kisses warm, 

Or give the love with which she glow'd, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 231 

So 'twas on Ba^-ard all bestowed. 

And on one time while round each form, 

Were twined their arms in friendship warm, 

And ruby lips to his were press'd, 

And her deep love for him confess'd, 

Begg'd him to fly to lands unknown — 

With her, from cruel hearts of stone, 

Where she could make him all her own, 

Where they might live, toil, love alone. 

While this was going on apace. 

And her soft, fiiir, sweet, rosy face. 

That would the crown of queen have graced, 

On Bayard's sable cheeks she placed ; 

His lord stepped in, the scene espied, 

And fiercely did he scold and chide; 

The maiden's love they did assuage — ■ 

By placing her in iron cage. 

Where it could fret away its rage. 

Bayard they from the castle drove. 

And forced the heartless world to rove, 

Until he met with me, -and now 

He's mine, such shall remain, I trow. 

For he's fearless, true and bold, 

Heedless of fiercest heat or cold. 

And no man, white nor black nor brown. 

Can in a combat knock him down. 

If he this night has entrance found 

In 3'onder castle grim, 

Though dozen men should him surround 

All strong in form and limb. 

No fear that they the least will liarm 

One ringlet of his head. 

For to the sinews of his arm 

A Sansom's strength is wed. 

If he has not his old love foimd, 



232 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Whose love may not be cold, 

We soon may hear his footstep's sound 

Across yon lonel}' wold, 

And see him with lanthe bound 

Securely in his hold." 

XV. 

Time sped on, on the moments flew, 
The time of night still shorter grew, 
The mist still thicker round them drew, 
The cock more oft and lusty crew, 
No sound of Ba3'ard jut they knew, 
No sign of Bayard met their view. 
" I wish" said Omar, " I had told 
Bayard if the child he did behold, 
And could not bring her safely here. 
To slaj^ her dead and leave her there ; 
It would have saved all this delay, 
And ever placed her out the way." 
" What would 3'ou have a maiden slain, 
When without drop of blood, or pain. 
Easily alive she can be ta'en? 
Let's on the castle rush amain, 
Say, I can have this maiden fair, 
With rosy cheeks and wavy hair. 
And ere shall pass another hour, 
I'll bring her from 3'on lofty tower ; 
And bring her to ni}^ mountain cave 
Where much a female form I crave. 
If she were safely lodged there now. 
She'd ne'er more trouble j^ou, I trow." 
Thus Johnson spoke whose soul and mine? 
Was yearning for the hoards he'd find, 
And for himself and Roger win, 
If he could roam that castle in. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 233 

And 'twas but this, and this alone, 
That made him 3'earn to enter there, 
And made him keenly fret and groan, 
For Omar's cause he did not care. 

XVI 

As if his zest to enter there — 

Omar awa}^ a while "svould wear, 

He thus began in whispers low, 

" Sa3^ Johnson, is it really so, 

That 3'ou would like a woman fair 

Your life and journeying to cheer? 

If this is so, I tell 3-ou here. 

And what I say is on the square, 

You can on ever}' word rely, 

Wdl })rove them ere a week go by ; 

I know a woman tall and fair, 

With flashing 63*68 and raven hair, 

And all majestic in her air ; 

Her cheeks and face are beauty* 's lair 

Her soft, smooth cheeks the hues disclose 

Of both the lily and the rose. 

There red and white divinely glow, 

Her cheeks their mingled glor^^ show. 

And fair and graceful is her form, 

As an^' human blood did warm ; 

But she has temper like a storm, 

Such as does in the tropics rise. 

And blacken all the earth and skies, 

I'll shortly bring her to your cave, 

If there you much a woman crave. 

But 3'ou must make her stay at home. 

And from 3*our cave ne'er let her roam," 

" And where is she now ? " Johnson said, 

" I do not know, perhaps she's dead, 



234 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

So many fleeting years have sped 

Since last of her I've had a view, 

But this I'll see to, all for 3'ou, 

And bring her if she be alive, 

But 3'ou must keep her in 3'our hive. 

Hark! what's that noise by yonder wall? 

I heard a scream and something fall. 

Let's go and see what it can be. 

Keep to the ground on liand and knee. 

And move right cautiously along, 

With Baj'ard something has gone wrong. 

For just before tliat thud did sound. 

That even echoes now around, 

Right plainly Bayard's voice I heard. 

Though 'twas a solitary word. 

'Twas from the castle's front it sped, 

And we are in its rear, let's tread. 

And move us light!}' round that way. 

But lo, there comes a taper's ray I " 

XVII. 

As Omar spoke, a light appeared, 

Which feebl}' through the darkness ilared. 

And at the high window whence the light — 

Came sickly on the mists of night, 

A second's space Hunyadi's frame — 

And but a second by it came. 

He just had waked from slumber's thrall, 

And though he heard a scream and fall. 

So from his lair he sprung in haste, 

His lamp he lit, and on the waste 

Of gloom without the match he cast, 

For this had by the window pass'd. 

Him, Omar in that second spied, 

And though the space between was wide, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 235 

Omar swift as a flash of thought, 
Within his hand his pistol caught, 
And sliot, and sent a ball so near, 
And close unto Hunyadi's ear — 
It grazing pass'd along its lobe, 
And did it of some skin disrobe. 
But from whence rose this scream and fall, 
Which seem'd so to have startled all ? 



XVIII. 



When in the window Bayard drew 
And last there had left our view, 
His feet of boots he swiftly cleared, 
And with dark lantern all prepared, 

To search that castle through and through 

Until lanthe met his view — 

He did in quest of her pursue. 

After long search from room to room, 

Where aught he scarcely saw but gloom, 

He suddenly the infant found, 

The child was wrapt in slumber sound. 

And soon he had her gagged and bound. 

One sole dim lamp within her room 

All sickly flared through damp and gloom. 
And this had Bayard kept to see 
If his long coil of rope was free 
Of knots, of tangles and of twists ; 
'Twas tied around her waist and wrists 
So as to keep her upright quite. 
While she was lowered from the height. 
All was prepared, the window found. 
From which to let her to the ground. 
When Guy Harold the light espied, 
That in lanthe 's room did bide, 
And to her chamber swiftly hied, 



236 THE RHEI OF LYOLYNN. 

But noiseless as the zephyrs glide. 
And ull weaponless was he, not e'en 
A club witliin his hand was seen. 
Though noiseless as the lightest air, 
Did Harold to that room repair, 
Yet him did Bayard see and hear, 
The moment that he entered there. 
With knife in hand that gleara'd on high 
Like lightning in a midnight skj-, 
Mouth, nostrils Avide, and glaring eya, 
He did upon the seaman fly. 

XIX. 

But ne'er had Bayard met before 

In all his thousand frays of yore, 

A man amongst all hues of men. 

As he grappled in that castle then. 

Ne'er had he waged in ull his life 

'Till now so terrible a strife. 

Though all his dajs with broils were rife. 

His hand that held the gleaming knife — 

Down by the seaman's throat lie brought, 

But swifter than a flash of thought. 

The seamau backward drew, and caught 

The hand that would his death have 

wrought — 
As down through air he saw it glide, 
And press'd it to the negro's side ; 
Caught Bayard's tliroat Avithin one hand. 
There quickly fix'd a vice-like band. 
And while he held him thus in thrall 
He thud him hard against the wall. 
Wild roll'd tlie negro's huge white e^^e, 
Like tossing moon in sable sky, 
His vast black mouth was open'd wide, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 23 1 

Where two dark shaggy tusks were spied, 
His nostrils wide distended were, 
Either through savageness or fear. 
The light upon his visage glowed, 
And long, lieal'd, awful gashes showed. 
And 'neath the light so pale and dim' 
He seem'd all horrible and grim, 
As might some grisly king of hell. 



Upon the floor his weapon fell, 
And in its fall he read his knell. 
And as from out the iron toil, 
Or anaconda's awful coil, 
Some mighty monster doth emei'ge. 
While nearly on death's awful verge, 
So from the seaman's grasp he strain'd, 
Ana nearly had the knife regain'd. 
As round his form the seaman threw 
His arms, and towards the window drew. 
Around each foe their arms were wound. 
Each in the otlier's arms was bound. 
From side to side they turn and go, 
Nor can one foe the other throw. 
Their breathing comes more loud and hard, 
And each is on his watch and guard. 
A while they stand as still as death, 
The throbbing heart and panting breath 
Can plainly for a while be heard. 
For they speak not a single word. 
Again they turn and twist and strain. 
And on the floor they fall amain. 
The wliite above, tiie black below. 
Swift as the lightning's rudd}^ glow. 
The seaman dealt one crushing blow — 



238 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Full on the temple of his foe. 
And while his eyes with fury gleam'd, 
He raised his foe with strength that seem'd 
Beyond the province of this world, 
High o'er his head the negro twirl 'd, 
And him throughout the casement hurl'd. 
Then rose but one fierce, ghastly yell, 
As through the yielding air he fell I 
Full eighty feet or more below 
Was heard but one dull, heavy blow. 
O'er the casement Harold lean'd, his ear 
Below no other sound could hear, 
Where earth did the crushed body show I 
And there beneath the morning's glow, 
Amongst the upturn'd mould and grass, 
Was found a shapeless, lifeless mass. 
All that remain 'd in form and limb 
Of negro Bayard, the strong and grim. 
'Twas this that gave the sudden sound 
Whose thud did on the mists rebound, 
That had so many startled round. 

XXI. 

And never from that awful night 
Until her dying day, 
lanthe e'er forgot the sight, 
She witness'd of that fray. 
As there, her limbs all tightly bound, 
With cords so closely drawn around 
They tortured and th?y pained. 
And gagged so fast, no faintest word 
Could from her ruby lips be heard, 
She on the couch remain'd — 
With thrills of horror and of awe — 
The workings of the conflict saw, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 239 

And knew the while, upon that strife 

"Where burn'd fell rage and hate, 

Depend her liberty aad life, 

Or some all horrid fate. 

It seem'd her eyes did bulge and strain, 

Through every fibre there — 

As sinews of that giant twain 

Whom she could see and hear. 

As grim they at each other tore 

And to and fro each other bore 

Around her spacious room. 

And the strange looks their fiices wore 

Amidst it sickly gloom, 

Were livid on her mind and soul 

Within long, after .year, 

As though limned bright upon a scroll, 

Without a blemish there. 

There, there plainly she could trace 

The burly Anglo-Saxon's face. 

The grim, fix'd, rigid, grisly smile 

He bore that conflict all the while. 

And all the ghastly hue it wore ; 

For full a weary week and more, — 

He'd lain 'neath fevers hot and sore, 

Which had impaired his strength of yore 

And made him haggard look the while • 

And his thick, close trimm'd, reddish hair 

Seem'd standing upright on its lair • 

His light gray eyes had turn'd to red, 

And horrid light through darkness shed 

Above his features' grisly smile. 

His foe, taller a head and more, 

But not so deep and broad of chest 

Reared high a face whose features wore 

The darkest hues by night possess'd 



240 THE HEIR OF LYGLYNN. 

Save the one, sole, huge orbs of white, 
Which shed a horror through the gloom, 
Like some meteor of the night 
Terror spreading and death and doom. 
His massive face that nature marr'd, 
When she did him conceive, beget. 
All terribly was seam'd and scarr'd, 
Which made him look more awful yet. 
And when from out her sight he pass'd 
To the abyss of death below. 
It seem'd a dream had round her cast 
The all terrific, fleeting show. 

XXII. 

Wax'd Johnson's anger keen and hot, 

When at Hun3adi, Omar shot, 

Swift he moved to where Omar stood, 

And with words that boded little good — 

To Omar or his coming task, 

His feelings thus he did unmask. 

" Out-law as I am, there's no meed, 

Would make me do so mean a deed, 

As shoot at an}' mortal foe, 

And let him none of warning know. 

So cowardl}- and dark a deed — 

Was never written in m}^ creed, 

And had it been, I would have torn 

From out the book with burning scorn 

The leaf on which such thoughts were borne, 

Cast it in the fire's ruddy glow, 

Straight made it nought but ashes show. 

Omar De Yaux, know you or not — 

That man at whom you just now shot?" 

" I do right well, he is the hind, 

Who my wife treated so unkind, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 241 

As her with chams and thongs to bind, 
And treated every one amiss, 
He found in The Bower of Bliss. 

'Twas him who all this evil wrought, 

Who from my charge lanthe brought, 

If at the deed I had him caught, 

A lasting lesson him I'd taught." 

At this, abrupt and stern in mood 

That showed his mind did little brood — 

Of good for Omar or his cause ; 

Johnson broke m without a pause. 

" I care not what he's done to you, 

Nor any member of 3"our crew, 

Had I known, 'twas him we'd to fight, 

No step towards here I'd come to night. 

For once I was condemned to die. 

Yea, mount upon the gallows high. 

And was innocent of the thing. 

For which I was about to swing. 

The day arrived, the awful day — 

On which I was to pass awaj-. 

From cell I saw the gallows grim, 

Loom through the mist of morning dim, 

Saw from the beam the cord hung straight. 

That was so soon to bear my weight. 

To God I cried. Oh can it be 

That Thou hast thus deserted me ! 

And while this style I praj^ed some length, 

"With all my heart and soul and strength. 

The jailor came into my cell, 

With smiles that somehow pleased me well. 

And soon he spake to me, in tone 

That thrill'd me, marrow, flesh and bone. 

With j 03^ the}' ne'er had known before. 

He moved the cursed chains I wore, 



242 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Thus his kind words began to fall. 

" No more these bonds shall 3-011 enthrall, 

For the crime 3'ou'll not die at all, 

Hunyadi it from 3-011 has moved, 

That 3-0U are innocent has proved, 

So go 3'our wa3^, and let the meed 

Of thanks to him be noble deed. 

Reward him for the life he's saved, 

B3- leaving all 5-our walks depraved ; 

A noble path through life pursue, 

So saving Amours he shall not rue." 

But how he proved that I was free 

Of the crime, was not told to me. 

I knew that 'mongst the men of crime 

He spent and idled half his time. 

Their deeds and all their secrets knew, 

Though not a crime himself would do, 

But some one found the guilt3- wretch 

Who aftei'wards did on gallows stretch. 

He has more knowledge now, I wis, 

About Koger's Bower of Bliss, 

Than e'er in 3'ou or I appeared : 

He knows each shaft by which 'tis air'd. 

Has up and down them often dared. 

Though scarcel3^ thirt3^ years have roll'd — 

O'er him their shine and heat and cold, 

He's done more good amongst us thieves — 

Than now many a priest believes. 

If 3'ou he's wrong'd in any way. 

Why, call him forth to open fray, 

A skillful swordsman such as you, 

Could in an instant pierce him through, 

So for this call him hi.re 'mongst us, 

But don't 3^ou dare to shoot him thus." 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 243 

XXIII. 

While thus they talked, they heard a sound 

As of firm footsteps on the ground; 

Near, nearer still the footsteps drew, 

Yet not an object they could view. 

Still deeper seem'd the mist to grow, 

Gave forth sounds, but no form would show, 

To where the footsteps' tread was heard 

Lighter than air forth Johnson stirr'd. 

Soon, suddenly he took his stand. 

For on his breast he felt a hand. 

" Who have I here ?" a voice asked stern. 

Whose tone did Johnson straight discern. 

" 'Tis I, I'm lost here in this mist, 

Which way to go I do not wist. 

Hunyadi once you saved my life, 

Now lead me from this darkness rife," 

"And who are you?" the voice replied, 

*' And why do you now here abide ? 

And how come j^ou to know my name ?" 

" From The Bower of Bliss I came, 

Omar De Yaux brought me here : 

Johnson is my name." '' And is there 

Any cause for De Yaux or you 

To shoot at others as you do ?" 

" This night with Omar I came here 

To do no murder, that I swear, 

We came to take a child away, 

They stole from him the other day, 

Which justly unto him belongs. 

And in this way to right his wrongs, 

Here have we gathered at his call : 

Nor did I know this night at all. 

You were within yon castle's wall, 

It really seems, one hour brings 



244 THB HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

You 'mongst us thieves, the next 'mongst 

kings. 
I only heard but yesterday, 
You did in foreign country stray, 
And much was I surprised to night, 
To see 3'ou in yon window's light, 
The ball at you I did not speed, 
'Twas Omar's hand that did the deed." 
" Yes, it was I," swift, Omar said, 
'^ Wish, it had only laid 3'ou dead. 
You did ray wife in fetters bind. 
And when a proper time I find. 
For that foul deed I'll make you stand 
In combat with me hand to hand. 
If by you combat be denied — 
I'll brand you as a coward wide." 
Thus straight began the man of song, 
" If I have done you aught of wrong. 
And you of me redress demand 
Heie ready for it now I stand, 
Will gladly meet you hand to hand." 
" It's alltogether now too dark 
For us to rightly see the mark. 
At morn we'll met in battle stark." 
" No, no," replied Hunyadi, "No, 
We shall not wait 'till morning's glow. 
You, De Vaux can see well as I, 
And we shall now this quarrel try." 
" I will not fight with you to night 
Unless you give to me the right 
To choose the weapons for the fight." 
" I give it you," Hunyadi said, 
So haste and choose ere night be sped." 
" Swords I choose, but then none have we." 
" Yes, and here they shall shortly be." 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 245 

XXIV. 

Just at the moment, this was said, 
Forth from the castle swiftly sped 
Some score of servants young and old, 
Who'd heard this talking on the wold. 
Hunyadi's voice they plainly heard, 
Was why they from the castle stirr'd. 
With lanterns they came drawing near, 
Eager for all they could see and hear. 
Soon one from out that servant band — 
Was sent by Hunyadi's command 
Back to the castle to seek there 
For swords, and quickly bring a pair. 
Now said Johnson, as they will fight. 
Let me prepare all things aright, 
I'll make for them vast floods of light, 
Some roots of pine I did behold 
This eve but yonder on the wold. 
Well dried they were and fat as oil. 
This night we'll make them flame and broil; 
Let each man take one in his hand — 
And light it into flaming brand — 
And while around the fight we stand — 
We will it all the better scan. 
Know then which is the choicest man. 

XXV. 

While thus he spoke, the swords were 

brought, 
Each to his hand a falchion caught. 
Both were glowing bright, keen and broad, 
But De Yaux won the longest sword ! 
Keenly each man his sword surveyed ; 
Into the wold the point was laid, 
Well bent each way the blade 's whole length , 



246 THE HBIR OF tTOLTNN. 

To prove its temper, steel and strength. 
From hilt to point each sword was tried, 
Where joined hilt and blade most keenly 

eyed. 
Each weapon faultless proved and good, 
Ready for combat each man stood. 
Their heads and breasts and arms were 

bared, 
And all things for the fra^^ prepared. 
Around the twain the robber liand — 
With flaming torches took their stand — 
High o'er their heads as mist to sco]-ch 
They each held up the blazing torch. 
Did all their brands together bring — 
Made round the twain a fiery ring, 
Within it swift each foeman trod. 
Right firmly pressed the dewy sod. 
Strode in the ring as blithe and free — 
With visage all as full of glee — 
And eyes as full of sprightly glance — 
As if to music, mirth and dance — 
Where beauty did the scene enhance. 
Round, on the ring cast one short view. 
Levelled their swords, to combat drew; 
Beneath the torches' waving light 
Flashed far and wide the falchions bright 

XXVI. 

An hour passed ; on neither blade 
Wais yet a sign of crimson laid. 
Nor o'er the form of either foe 
Was seen a drop of blood to glow, 
For skill 'd was each the sword to wield, 
To each 'twas weapon and a shield, 
To feint, to guard, to thrust, to strike, 



THE UEIR OF LYOLYNN. 247 

To pass and ward, were trained alike, 
So evenly with swords they vied, 
None knew which best his weapon plied, 
And nought was heard through all this time 
But meeting broad-swords deadly chime. 
With unremitting din they rung, 
From their hard steel the fire sprung, 
And far across the spacious wold — 
Where mist hung o'er in heavy fold — 
Their stormy clang, their echos rolled, 
To distant gloom — of conflict told. 
Bright as the light the broad-swords threw. 
And sparks that from them dancing flew, 
Omar De Yaux's ej^es shone bright, 
'Neath shaggy brows the hue of night, 
Full in their foes that shone before — 
A rigid, peering gaze the}" bore. 
His visage all was hid with beard, 

Save where was nose and forehead reared. 

These to the lights that round them glared 

With ghastly hues of white appeared. 

The visage of his foe the while 

Was wrapt in one fix'd, grisly smile ; 

His 3'ellow locks that heavy hung, 

Were back from his broad forehead flung ; 

O'er his fair cheeks and lips and chin — 

No robe of whiskers hid the skin, 

But there a few day's growth of beard 

All o'er them short and thick appeared, 

Which made him savage look the while, 

With grisly aspect limned his smile. 

Though like his foeman's orbs of night 

His azure e^^es were not so bright, 

Seem'd not so spark-like to the sight, 

Yet, yet, they had their share of light. 



248 THE HEIR OB" LYOLYNN. 

And like some fiir off planets gleam 'd 
While full into their foe's they beam'd. 

XXVII. 

Some drops of blood on Omar's sword — 
Now spread o'er its bright surface broad, 
From where the arm on shoulder grows 
Down Hunyadi's fast the crimson flows ; 
Then wild each blazing torch was tossed, 
To and fro each the flambeaux crossed, 
And burst from out that robber throng- 
Shouts that echoed shrill, deep and long — 
As they beheld the crimson flood ! 
Again did Omar's sword shed blood : 
Again the noisy robber band 
Sent shouts across the misty land ; 
And higher rose in air their hands 
And twirl 'd and cross 'd their flaming 

brands. 
Yet, still the foes with steady nerve, 
And eyes that ne'er from foeman swerve, 
Feint, parry, strike, guard, thrust and foil, 
Swift forward move, alike recoil, 
And nought a while their swords reveal 
But unremitting clang of steel. 
And sparks of flame that flash and fly 
Like lightnings o'er a hazy sky, 
At length 'neath Omar's brow of night — 
Where gleam'd his orbs of flashing light — 
As levin sable cloud beneath — 
Hunyadi's sword found gory sheath ; 
Back swift as thought flerce Omar drew — 
Agile as though no wound he knew, 
Or grew far stronger through its pain, 
And straight thrust at his foe amain, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 249 

While high Hunyadi's falchion flew — 
As lightning flashes to the view, 
And like the thunder's bolt of flame 
Right down on Omar's arm it came, 
Between the elbow and the hand, 
And down upon the thirsty sand, 
Sudden as falls some mighty limb 
From strong oak torn by levin grim — 
That falls ere tempests are abroad — 
Fell Omar's hand and arm and sword ; 
Clean severed from his form 'twas lopp'd, 
Together hand and falchion dropp'd, 
Uprose the handless stump in air, 
Stood by his head of matted hair. 
Then gushed the blood in columns tall, 
As fountains rise and arching fall 
Within the court of stately hall. 
Another blow, another thrust. 
And Omar writhed on gory dust. 
The torches waved, the shouts arose, 
As grim did thus the combat close. 
'Gainst Johnson's knee was Omar propped, 
While was tied each bleeding vein, 
Vainly the flow of blood was stopped, 
The wounds gushed forth amain, 
The thirsty earth the crimson sopped 
And reeked with gory stain : 
But ere on earth he lifeless dropped 
Beneath the fatal drain, 
Hunyadi swiftly drew more near, 
On Omar's face his eyes he cast, 
And quickly thus regaled the ear 
Of him whose life was fleeting fast. 



250 THE HEIK OF LYOLYNN. 

XXVIII. 

I've heard the wa^'s of God are strange, 
That they are hidden all in night ; 
Through Him empires wane and change, 
Arise to view, or pass from sight ! 
And where so e'er o'er earth I range, 
Where rest mine ej^es, or thoughts alight, 
I see this truth in letters plain, 
Though they were stamped upon my brain; 
On parchment penned in glowing stain ; 
And did before mine eyes remain. 
From my frail infancy 'till now, 
Yes, ere a year pass'd or my brow, 
Have I been toss'd from clime to.clime. 
Homeless waif upon the sea of time, 
Roaming without a helm or sail, 
Where e'er did floods and winds prcA^ail. 
'Twas by chance I trod that ship's deck — 
Which on the reef became a wreck, 
Not 'till the day she sail'd I knew — 
Guy Harold was amongst her crew, 
When this I heard, to her I flew. 
To take once more of him a A'iew, 
Against my wishes he prevail'd. 
And with him on that ship I sail'd. 
One night upon the deck Avas I, 
And 3'ou and Lea were standing nigh. 
You thought me sound asleep the while. 
But I saw every frown or smile. 
And heard each word ye spake the time, 
And heard ye plan your deeds of crime. 
I heard ye name a place I knew — 
The Bower of Bliss, its whole crew 
Save Roger Lea, to me were known, 
I've oft been 'mongst its inmates thrr 



THH HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 251 

For to that cave I oft repair'd, 
Know every shaft by which 'tis air'd. 

But never yet, when there I've been 

Have I e'er aught of Roger seen. 
By what I heard from you and him — 
I learn 'd he own'd that cavern grim. 
When on the reef we ship-wreclv'd lay, 
I o'er heard you to Pvoger say, 
The little girl that was saved there, 
Was to broad lands the nearest heir, 
I listened to you, every word, 
And all your fiendish plans I heard, 
When was sung the Thantoms of the wold, 
The while I did your face behold, 
I saw you start and frown and grin, 
When came the name of Lyolynn, ' 
Although the man that sang that song 
That told of Edith's deeds of wrong. 
Knew nothing of you at the time, 
'Twas all by chance he sang the rhyme. 
I heard 3'ou tell Bayard to go — 
At morning when the tide was low. 
And search for papers, but it chanced 
Mine eye had on those papers glanced 
The day before, I saw them drift 
Amidst the wreck, and did them lift. 
Because I saw penn'd on them plain 
Lockhart and Lj^olynn. Amain 
1 did conceal them safe and sound, 
Until a proper time I found. 
Then I did all their import sift, 
Saw they had been from God a gift, 
To teach me where the child belonged, 
That you so foully would have wronged 
When from Zurn's ship we landed here 



252 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

So numerous 3'our comrades were, 

I saw uo slightest chance at all 

To take the child from out your thrall, 

So followed where j^ou bore the child, 

To that lone cavern in the wild. 

Swift with Gny Harold there I drew — 

With Bracklinn and 0' Conna too. 

I caught you all within my snare. 

And did the infant from you tear. 

Now I look back and see 'twas God 

Who made that ship by me be trod. 

He led me there the day she sailed. 

And it was not Harold who prevail 'd 

On me that day, Avith him to go, 

God ordered it, and made it so. 

He at the time intended me — 

In this His instrument to be. 

To deal His punishment and wrath, 

'Twas Him who set me on 3'our path. 

The infant, by His aid, my hand 

Wrenched from all evils that you plann'd. 

And you will shortly tread that shore. 

From whence joii can return no more. 

But I must perform one task yet, 

I do to Baj'ard owe a debt. 

Which with his life I'll pay to him ; 

But he shall die on gallows grim, 

And unto beasts shall he be fed. 

Omar where is this Bayard?" "Dead, 

I did him from the casement throw. 

More then two full hours ago." 

A voice from out the throng replied 

Which just had from the castle hied. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 253 

XXIX. 

At this De Vaux with sudden bound 

Leapt upward from the gory ground, 

And stood erect and strong and tall 

As though he had no wound at all. 

And towards Harold, who 'midst the glare 

Of torches that were hlazinaf there. 

Stood with lanthe in his arms, 

Just where the light reveal'd her glowing 
charms. 

The wounded man made way and cried 

" Bayard is not dead, you have lied." 

But ere to Harold, Omar trod, 

He reel'd, and sank upon tlie sod. 

" Alice, Alice," thrice he murmured low, 

The blood gushed out in rapid flow. 

Dropped heavy on the earth his head, 

Grim pallor o'er his visage spread. 
His eye shed forth a horrid glare 
Put on a fix'd and rigid stare. 

His breathing ceased, stiff, cold as stone 

His limbs and body all had grown. 
And life had from fierce Omar flown. 
With beard matted rough, stiff" with gore 
Like lodged grass storms had driven o'er, 
Had left it wildly ridged and tossed, 
All stifl'ened grim with hail and frost, 
And that stern savage look he bore 
Through life, which fierce in death he wore, 
With parted lips, mouth opened wide 
Rimmed with a beard, thick crimson dyed 
And nostrils stretched, all wide displayed 

A horrid spectacle he made 

As dead amidst his gore he laid. 



254 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

XXX. 

As HunA-adi "wiped from- liis brand 

The crimson d3'e, unto the band 

Of robbers who all silent stood. 

Each with his torch of blazing wood, 

He sternly said, "Go bring a bier. 

And straight your chieftain take from here, 

And cast him in some mountain gurge. 

From whence he never can emerge, 

But with its floods be downward hurPd — 

Into the centre of the world. 

And down there, let the monsters grim. 

Tear, devour him form and limb. 

Let him go with the waters' flight 

Into impenetrable night. 

So that if e'er in shine or storm — 

His cursed soul should seek its form, 

'Twill have to go in endless gloom, 

To look upon its mortal's tomb. 

And while it watches, not curse the light^ — 

Of moon nor stars nor noonday bright, 

But sit in its own element 

Eternal night, and there repent 1 

So, go, and haste his corpse away 

Ere it is seen by morning's ray." 

XXXT. 

He ceased, and swift a bier was made, 
The ghastly dead was on it laid. 
And to a mountain gvirge convey'd. 
And 'midst its waters black and vast, 
Without a tear the dead was cast, 
And to eternal darkness pass'd. 
The robber band a lesson taught, 
Their caves and dens m silence sought. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 255 

To Castle Flame its inmates hied, 

And joyous shouts reecho 'd wide. 

They flew upon the shades of night, 

O'er glen and wold and mountain's height, 

And loud within the castle's wall — 

Did strains of music rise and fall, 

Far were they heard, for winds were whist, 

And nought but these disturbed the mist, 

That hill, glen, wold and castle kissed. 

Which until morning kept its trj-st. 



ioG THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 



PART YI. 



Before the morning's rosy glow, 
The heavy mist moved dull and slow, 
All sleepy from the sea it roll'd — 
From castle, hill and glen and wold — 
While rising da3ijeams through it burst. 
Its gloomy folds to brightess nursed. 
And made it from the earth repair — 
In folds of light to distant air, 
And gave it as in space it roll'd 
The hues of amber and of gold 
And made it seem o'er its wide scope 
A vast dominion, all of hope — 
And mingled Beauty, Bliss and mirth. 
At least such as is known on earth. 
For what are these than fleeting shows. 
Like mist that 'neath the morning glows ? 
The gilded clouds that rest in air, 
And stretched on just such solid lair? 
Frail, empty pageantries that fly — 
A while across bright Fanc^^'s sk}^, 
'Till comes a night, or tempest's breath. 
And all dissolves in gloom and death. 

II. 

Bright glowed the sun upon the world, 
The mist was into ether hurl'd. 
And glowing bright on Castle Flame 
The splendors of the da3'-god came, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 257 

And far away o'er sparkling sea, 

O'er movintain, glen and grass}^ lea, 

O'er forests vast and barren wold. 

The e^^e could view from that tall hold. 

And all where e'er the eye could range — 

Was nought but beauty, what the change. 

If did the eye on seas alight, 

There was water sparkling, glowing bright, 

If from this the dazed vision roll'd, 

'Twas met by sloping hill or wold, 

Yast woody tracts, or grassy land, 

And if while these were being scann'd — 

'Twas found some barren spots they bore. 

E'en these their hues of beauty wore. 

And if the vision turn'd to scan — 

That lofty castle's stately' plan. 

There it nought but grand structure found — 

From its high turrets to the ground. 

From side to side, from end to end, 

Did all in statel^^ grandeur blend. 

Upon a wide and lofty wold. 

Was built this strong, towering hold. 

It had been rear'd in days of yore. 

Back, full twelve hundred years and more, 

By Lyolynn, a sea-king bold, 

Who with his sword had won that wold, 

Whose name within the olden time. 

Was known on every sea and clime. 

Who had sent o'er the world his fame, 

Brighter than glows the northern flame. 

For he had trod on thousand fields. 

Amidst the crash of swords and shields ; 

And his bright glory, worth and name, 

Yet live upon the roll of fame. 

And this chieftain's conquoring sword, 



258 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Won him dominions fair and broad, 

The lands all round this lofty wold, 

On which he'd rear'd his kinglj^ hold. 

All which, unto his d3'ing day. 

He held beneath his lordly swa3\ 

And all this realm his sword did win, 

Still bears the name of Lyolynn. 

He. left behind a noble line, 

Which did in martial glory shine ; 

All like him, from sire to son. 

By each were deeds of knighthood done 

And each his share of glory won. 

For valor, courtesy and strength. 

Were known the world's vast width and 

length. 
'Till time flew on and manners changed, 
And differently was all arranged, 
The Sun of knighthood, which of 3'ore 
Had gilded all the world so pure, 
Began to charm the earth no more — 
With its effulgence grand and bright 1 
Behind corruption's growing night — 
Which more eclipsing grew each da}^, 
Still gradually it hid its ray, 
Until it waned and pass'd away. 
And sank 'neath night that planet pure, 
To never lume the nations more. 

III. 

The Sun of knightliness went down, 
Behind corruption's sable frown, 
And the dark ages came apace 
Left in time's vale a barren space. 
And in this while the noble race, 
Sold, lost their old ancestral place, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 259 

Since then it had been own'd and held, 

By races all unknown to eld, 

Who proudl}^ vaunted to the earth — 

The}'^ had from Lyolynn drawn birth. 

Sprung from that formidable race — 

Which first in valor held their place. 

But when the lineage was searched, 

On its rolls no such names were perched, 

And soon the searching, busy eye^ 

Proved all their vaunting was a lie. 

Nor could they prove their source aright. 

For it was wrapt in mud and night : 

But — lord — or lady Lyolynn, 

They donn'd, who did those towers win. 

And thovigh through them and time and 

storm. 
It much had changed in looks and form 
Yet, it was all a castle grand, 
As was extant within the land. 
And the same name it had of yore. 
Until that ver}^ day it bore. 
Yes, known to all by the same name 
Its founder gave it. Castle Flame. 
Its massive walls of dark gray stone. 
Revealed no wear from ages flown. 
Showed from foundation unto roof, 
It had 'gainst time and storm been proof 
There tier on tier the massive blocks 
Stood unworn as when fi'om the rocks 
Of the adjacent mountains vast — 
They had been hewn, and there placed fast — 
Within that massive, lofty wall, 
To close a mighty sea-king's hall. 
The turrets still rear'd high their form. 
And seem'd untouched by time or storm, 



260 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And did a noble view command, 
Of rolling sea and mountain land. 
Though much of its primeval grace 
Scarce fleeting time had left a trace, 
Yet in and round that castle all, 
From floor to ceiling and to wall, 
From ground unto the turrets tall, 
Look'd grand where e'er the eye could fall 
About that ancient sea-king's hall, 

IV. 

A circle round that statel}' hold. 
Amongst the grasses of the wold, 
Which b3^the eye was easy seen — 
Deep hollowed in the glowing green, 
And this of yore the eye could note. 
Had been the castle's circling moat, 
But this surrounding fosse of yore 
As knighthood days were past and o'er, 
Was needed to defend no more. 
So pai-tly it with earth was fill'd, 
Just so it could with grass be till'd. 
But showed a hollow midst the green, 
To tell where it of j^ore was seen. 
And far beyond this hollow'd place. 
The roaming eye could also trace — 
The ruins of an ancient wall, 
Which once around that sea-king's hall 
Had been strong and massive rear'd,and tall, 
But hands not storm had wrought its fall. 
It had been ta'en to arch a bridge 
Which spann'd from there unto a ridge 
Of woody mountains far awa}'. 
Behind which glowing pastures lay. 
Watered by streams as clear as glass, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 261 

By which did herds of cattle pass, 
And cropped at ease the fatt'ning grass, 
And be^'^ond these were fertile fields, 
Marked here and there with plowmen's 

bields. 
Where tracts of wheat and tasseled corn, 
Did far and wide the earth adorn, 
Where orchards vast and vineyards stood, 
And scattered groves of statelj- wood, 
Far as the eye could wander o'er, 
These lands unceasing verdure wore. 
These the dominions broad and fair, 
Of Lyolynn's young maiden heir. 
The child we do lanthe call, 
Now own'd these A^ast dominions all. 



The heavy mist had sped in air, 
The sun grown bright, the morning fair, 
And all the many inmates found — 
Within that castle's spacious bound, 
Grew happy with morn's bright 'ning ray. 
And gayly whiled the time awaj^ — 
With their light toil, with mirth or lay. 
But to a line of rock that stood 
From the castle many a rood, 
Which a tall wall-like front did show, 
To deep, vast seas that lay below — 
Some thirteen hundred feet and more. 
And gently lean'd that ocean o'er ; 
To this five men were seen to pass, 
Bearing along a sable mass 
Of battered flesh and broken bone. 
Which look'd as though it once had known 
Somewhat the form and shape of man, 



262 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Biit had much changed its primal plan. 
Where the perpendicular -wall — 
Lean'd o'er the flood and seem'd most tall 
This mass was borne, with toss and throw, 
Sent whirling to the sea below. 
And as this mass of flesh and blood, 
Went falling to the distant flood, 
Those who it to the waters threw 
Lean'd o'er the rocks its fall to view 
And as it touched the sea they saw 
Some grisl}^ sharks unto it draw, 
Which seized on it, and 'neath the wave 
Bore it down to some unknown grave. 
And thus amidst the waters vast, 
From sight, for ever Bayard pass'd. 
Back nigh unto the castle's wall. 
Beneath a shady poplar tall, 
Where from was smiling landscape showed, 
These five in mirth and laughter strode. 

VI. 

Four of these five before we've seen. 
And know them well b}' this, I ween. 
We met them on the headlands wild, 
When there a wreck their ship was piled, 
And now beneath this poplar green, 
Are Bracklinn and 0' Conna seen, 
And 'neath its shade by zephyrs fann'd, 
Guy Harold and Hunyadi stand. 
But never, never yet 'till now, 
We'd view'd the other one, I trow. 
Beneath the stately tree he stands, 
A brush and book are in his hands, 
Painter and sculptor both is he, 
Has in these arts won high degree. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 263 

He could a glowing landscape paint, 

Or limn a demon or a saint, 

And give to all fall life-like hue 

Yea, makes each point to nature true. 

And from a rugged rock can form — 

A thing that seems alive and warm, 

A shape superb, with smiling face. 

All perfect symmetry and grace. 

His azure eyes now view the sea. 

As though on it his musings be. 

Tall is his form though bent with years, 

Yet still all vigorous appears, 

His'wrinkled arms and hands yet show 

They still a sturdy vigor know. 

And from their massive bulk and span. 

And from their perfect mold and plan. 

It is right easy there to scan. 

That these some fifty years before, 

A brawny giant's vigor bore. 

His spacious depth and width of chest. 

And ample shoulders all confessed — 

There once an athlete's strength did rest. 

His feet are large, his legs are long. 

But sinewy all, lithe and strong. 

His neck thick, sinewy and short. 

Does stately, noble head support, 

Fair his forehead broad and high. 

And o'er his eyes of azure d3'e — 

That have not lost their ancient glow — 

Lie brows and lashes white as snow. 

His hair is white as hoarest rime. 

And like some prophet of old time. 

His beard o'er cheeks and lips and chin. 

With heavy growth hides all their skin, 

Dense o'er his broad, high cheeks it grows, 



264 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And almo&t hides his Grecian nose. 
And white as foam when tempest blows 
Long and broad down his bosom flows. 
The birth-roll of the land can show, 
Born was he a centur}' ago. 
From his boyhood, unto his prime 
Was past in travelling, all the time, 
Through every country he had been. 
Which on the world's bi'oad chart is seen, 
And of their people great and small — 
Knew their ways, habits, manners all. 
Had roam'd o'eranountain, march and field, 
And ate, drank, slept in peasant's bield, 
Knew all of life their traits could yield. 
Knew all their favorite themes and songs. 
Each vice and virtue which belongs 
From lowest serf to highest peej, 
For he had shared their toil and cheer. 
And mated with far higher things. 
Been welcome in the courts of kings. 
To the last lord of L^olynn, 
Who sail'd that fatal ship within. 
Which we wrecked on the reef have seen, 
He had a friend in boyhood been, 
Yea, help'd him in a time of need. 
Nor had the sculptor's generous deed 
Been e'er forgotten b}^ that lord, 
But in his grateful heart 'twas stored, 
And when the sculptor old became and hoar, 
And made by grim misfortunes poor. 
He sought him midst his want and Avoe, 
Repaid the deed of long ago. 
Relieved his want and woe and care, 
And made him to a cot repair — 
That stood amidst a landscape fair — 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 265 

High on a woodj^ hill top tall, 

Short distance from the castle's wall, 

And within it ten j^ears and more—. 

Had dwelt this painter old and poor. 

Some one to him that very morn 

The news of last night scenes had borne, 

So to the castle swift he drew 

To see if all he heard were true. 

This is wh}' the painter Ulrick came 

To be seen 'mougst those at Castle Flame. 

VII. 

On lightning wings the moments flew, 

The plowman's horn for noon time blew ; 

Yet still beneath the poplar green — ■ 

In merry mood those five are seen ; 

For each the world had travelled well. 

Had much of what they'd seen to tell. 

But while the}^ talked, adown the road * 

Which led unto that fair abode, 

They saw a cloud of dust appear. 

Whose swartly folds high rode in air. 

Fast towards the castle drew more near, 

And soon amidst its gloom they heard — 

The horse-hoofs which the dust had stirr'd, 

And as they reached the sloping green, 

Were Mosman and his daughter seen. 

With score of comrades at their rear, 

Who did on noble steeds appear — 

Right up the sloping green they rode. 

That glowed around that grand abode, 

Fair Alice on a milk-white steed. 

Took of the coming train the lead. 

And as she hoary Ulrick pass'd, 

A greeting unto him she cast. 



2G6 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

" Who is that maiden ?" Harold said 

Just as the train had b^' tliem sped. 

" Nigh all the world I roam'd, I ween, 

Yet fairer maid I've never seen." 

Thus Bracklinn hastil}^ replied, 

" He who did nearest to her ride, 

Is sure the very man, I ween — 

At Mosman's grange by me was seen. 

When unto Omar, who was there, 

I did Hunyadi's letter bear. 

The shades of night were thick'ning round, 

When Mosman's grange by me was found. 

There near the river 'neath a tree. 

Did I four men together see, 

This man was one, the other three 

Were Zurn, De Yaux and Koger Lea, 

But so disguised was I, those men 

Seem'd not to recognize me then ; 

This man soon as I came in view, 

Was the sole one that to me drew, 

Into his hand the note I threw, 

He said right well De Yaux he knew. 

That Omar was to him a friend. 

Oft there as guest his time did spend, 

And that he would at my request. 

Straight give it to his honor'd guest, 

As this he said, mj- steed I spurr'd, 

His mettle to full action stirr'd. 

Which made him prance and spring and 

bound, 
And suddenly I wheel'd him round, 
Gave him the spur and slack'd his rein, 
And parted from their sight amain." 
Here Ulrick broke in " You are right, 
That was him and his daughter bright, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 261 

A man of lordly wealth is he, 

Owns vast extents of hill and lea, 

That spread around his stately home, 

Far as the strongest eye can roam, 

But just through thievery and fraud, 

Has he won all his mighty hoard, 

And lands that stretch around him broad." 

Here Harold said, "These arc the sort 

Of men who live in kingly court. 

They on the choicest cuts can dine, 

And drink the best of ruddy wine. 

While those who strive to honest live, 

And all their thoughts to virtue give, 

Can only drink the lees of wine, 

And on skin, bone and gristle dine. 

And when the}^ grow too old and hoar, 

To toil o'er ocean, dale and moor. 

Then go as pauper, gray and poor, 

Within the filthy alms-house door. 

And there submit to every jeer, 

And humbl_y crouch beneath the leer — 

Of its rough, boorish overseer. 

Yes, 3'es, this world is cursed queer. 

If man is only bless'd with wealth, 

No matter if 'tis gain'd by stealth. 

He straight can take the highest pearch, 

At board, in counsel or in church. 

And all to him will bend the knee, 

Although a downright thief is he, 

All men to him are truckling slaves. 

Just look at yonder drove of knaves, 

From their steeds they are alighting now. 

See their foolish, foppish style, see how 

All the servants run, and humbly bow. 

Ready to kiss their feet, I trow. 



268 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Like mongrel curs that run to meet 
Their lord, and lick around his feet. 
Yes, yes, get wealth, no matter how, 
And all to you will cringe and bow. 
Yea, steal by day, and steal by night, 
Pile up your hoards of treasure bright, 
And 3'ou on choicest cuts can dine. 
And quaff the best of ruddy wine, 
I know not why, but ne'er 'till now, 
I've felt thus 'gainst the rich, I trow. 
No, ne'er 'till no wthey've waked such spleen, 
As now I feel through all my mien. 
And treasure I shall search for now. 
And win it too , I heed not how. 
I know just where it can be won. 
And 1 swear e'er to-morrow's sun 
Shall half his dailj' course have run, 
I'll bring it from its hiding place. 
And it shall Harold's coffer grace." 

VIII. 

As thus he spake old Ulrick strode — 

Into the Lyol^'nn abode. 

And left the four to talk the while 

Of fickle fortune's frown or smile. 

As from their sight old Ulrick drew. 

Thus Harold straight began anew. 

" Now here, are we four mortals thrown — 

L/ike waifs that on the shores are blown. 

No spot on earth however lone. 

That either one can call his own, 

Without a friend, without a dime, 

Poor strangers in a foreign clime. 

What little had been saved by me. 

Lies in the light-house 'neath the sea. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 269 

And no man ever it can gain-^ 

'Till God shall dry the watery main. 

And though m}' losses are severe, 

Seem ever more beyond repair, 

They are, they are I do confess. 

Than Bracklinn's and O'Conna's less, 

Like them no wife and child I lost. 

Nor saw them 'neath the billows tost. 

If I had met with such a plight — 

I crazy would have gone out right. 

Yes, here we are, from ocean hurl'd, 

All waifs and beggars in the world. 

Now, I see not one single bit, 

Why to such fates we should submit. 

When Roger has such boundless wealth, 

Which he has gathered all by stealth. 

And I see nought in the deed amiss. 

To take it from The Bower of Bliss. '• 

Why let the old thief keep such pelf, 

Useless to all, and to himself? 

I do not think it theft at all, 

For us to take it from its thrall." 

" Nor I," said Bracklinn with a smile, 

"I'll go help foray on his pile." 

'■ The same with me," O'Conna cried, 

*' I never yet such hoards espied, 

With 3^ou I'll gladly there repair 

And help to bring away a share. 

Whj^ let the old thief hold it thus, 

When it is needed so by us ?" 

At this, the gong for dinner time. 

Did in the castle noisy chime. 

Bracklinn and O'Conna at the call, 

Swift sped them to the castle hall, 

For gluttons were they both, and long 



210 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Had they been listening for that gong, 
And scarcely did they wait to hear, 
Its first harsh tone rise on their ear. 
That off they flew the meal to greet, 
So fast you scarce could see their feet. 
When the}' had in the castle fled, 
To Harold thus Hunyadi said. 

IX. 

" Ever since that fair maiden past, 
A gloom has o'er your soul been cast, 
I see 3'ou have right at first sight. 
Gone in love with that woman quite, 
Though she is beautiful and 3'oung, 
Think of the stock from whence she's 

sprung, 
If I were you, I would not care, 
t To mingle with such poison 'd tare." 

" On barren rocks I've often seen — 
Where scarce was viewed one speck ofgreen, 
A flower bloom divinely fair. 
And with rich fragrance fill the air, 
Seen solitary rose appear. 
Where grew nought else but poison'd tare. 
Yet it did just as perfect grow. 
And just as pure and sweetl^^ blow, 
And just such fragrance round it throw, 
As sweetest could the gardens show. 
I've seen the rain-bow's lovely form 
Beam forth untainted by the storm." 
" And I have seen," Hun3^adi said, 
" Many a richer, brighter maid, 
And sprung from nobler race than she, 
Wed far much poorer man than thee. 
So do not let thy heart grow faint, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 2T1 

Nor aught of gloom its brightness taint, 

And when in j-oncler hall we go, 

Away thy moody feelings throw, 

Amongst the crowd stand thou erect, 

All dignified in self-respect ; 

From head to heel, through all thy mien. 

No sign of bashfulness be seen, 

If with this maid thou should st confer — 

Be manly in thy speech with her. 

It is the ore that makes the coin, 

The stamp no added worth doth join, 

And though the minted mark be set 

On brass, copper, zinc or lead, 3^et 

They '11 not pass for gold, what e'er the mark, 

At day time nor at midniglit dark, 

The cheat is gross, 'tis easy told. 

They show no sound at all of gold." 



Thus as they spake, within the hall 
They moved unto the dinner call ; 
And 'mongst the throng they mingled soon 
That crowded through a large saloon. 
There Hnnyadi did lanthe view, 
And swift beside the child he drew, 
Some words he whispered in her ear, 
Which no one there save she could hear, 
Then moved he swift amidst the crowd, 
Where all was mirth and laughter loud. 

XI. 

Many were the inmates of that hold, 
From children young to women old. 
For the last lord of Lyolynn 
Gave there a home to all his kin, 
Who were in need of home or pelf, 



272 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Or who were poorer than himself. 

All these unto the castle sped, 

By him were cloth'd and housed and fed, 

And there an easy life the}^ led. 

As the old lord was never wed, 

And was away most of his time 

Journejdng in some foreign clime, 

No one within that castle's bound, 

Was by its many inmates found, 

To check b}^ either night or day. 

Their feasting, pastime, or their play. 

So a right joyous life they led, 

And most sumptuous they fed. 

When once his kindred entered there, 

The}' seldom left his noble cheer, 

But straight became with fervent zest, 

Its good old owner's steadfast guest. 

And never thought of leaving there, 

'Till borne away upon their bier. 

xn. 

As Harold strode the hall within, 
lanthe heir of Lyolynn, 
Who did by Alice Mosman stand 
Straight grasped the seaman by the hand. 
And thus with sprightly tone she said, 
As shook the ringlets round her head, 
" Cousin Alice, here's a friend of mine 
And I must make him one of thine." 
Then with her face bright wreathed in smile. 
In an all artless, child-like st3de — 
She made the two together known, 
And with her arms around them thrown, 
She walked the statel}^ pair between, 
And led them to the festive scene. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 273 

Soon as they near'd the table broad, 
That was with food most richly stored, 
Two chairs lanthe caught in haste, 
And side by side her guests she placed. 
With choicest cuts their plates she piled, 
With rudd}' wine their goblets smiled, 
By Harold then her seat she took, 
And happy was lanthe 's look. 

XIII, 

Around the table broad and long, 
Had gathered all the eager throng ; 
And far to left and far to right, 
Where e'er lanthe's gaze did light, 
Nothing but faces smiling bright. 
And joyous feasting met her sight. 
Bracklinn and O'Conna side by side, 
Nigh opposite of her she spied. 
And the right eager, hastely mood. 
With which they hid huge piles of food. 
The swift way down each gluttons throat, 
She saw the wine in torrents float, 
The way they slapped their lips at times, 
Sent far and wide these stormy chimes, 
The noisy way the^^ sucked their teeth, 
Which gleamed at times their lips beneath. 
The way they each displayed their tongue, 
As swift it from its cavern sprung, 
To wine receive, or lumps of food, 
lanthe view'd in mirthful mood. 
But no loud laughter showed lier glee — 
At all she chanced to hear and see. 
Until she saw O'Conna rear — 
A sparkling wine cup to his ear, 
And spill the glowing liquid there, 



274 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Who did so sleepy drunk appear — 
He could not either see nor hear. 
Nor could he find his mouth aright — 
In which to pour that liquid bright, 
Though it the while, wide open stood, 
Prepared to quaff the ruddy flood. 
An equal cause did Bracklinn show, 
To make her laughter merr}^ flow, 
His ej'es lids heavy hung and low, 
His sleepy head rock'd to and fro. 
His fork pierced in a slice of tart, 
His hand did from the table start, 
But it did 'mongst his whiskers rove, 
To find his mouth he vainly strove, 
To find his mouth he vainly tried, 
Though for the tart 'twas open'd wide. 
So long his trials fruitless proved, 
So long it 'mongst his whiskers moved, 
Upon the fork it lost its hold, 
And dropping on the floor it roll'd. 
Then burst lanthe's laughter wild, 
Instant all eyes were on the child. 
And loud around that spacious board — 
Both 3'oung and old with laughter roar'd. 
So wild and loud and deep and strong 
The merr}^ laughter burst and long, 
Amongst that gay and festive throng, 
E'en Bracklinn and O'Conna woke. 
And half waj- from their stupor broke, 
Each quafT'd another cup of wine. 
And straight again began to dine, 
And though not one amongst that feast, 
Knew what stirr'd lanthe's mirth the least. 
They only hearty laughed and wild, 
Because, just so had done the child, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 275 

For now they saw that she was heir 
To all those broad dominions fair, 
No matter what the child mioht do. 
They'd truckling after her pursue, 
Yea, mimic her in every way. 
What e'er she chanced to do or say, 
And let her laugh or weep or smile, 
They straight would do the same the while, 
And now they laughed because she did, 
Though her cause of mirth from all was hid. 

XIV. 

All burst with Mighter loud and strong, 

Save few amongst that festive throng, 

And two of these to crimson blushed, 

Seem'd at that mirth confused and flushed 

Even long after it had hushed, 

Seem'd to think they had caused the birth 

Of that wild burst of sudden mirth, 

That almost all had join 'd in there, 

And these Alice and Harold were. 

It seem'd these two soon as they met, 

Had their love upon each other set, 

Or as in after time they told, 

When years had since their marriage roll'd 

" They felt something keen as a dart, 

Through all their inmost being start . 

Keep moving in and round each heart, 
Which never did from them depart. 
Well might these twain while at the board 
They heard the gust of laughter pour'd, 
Have fancied it was they alone. 
Who had in it the feasters thrown, 
For nothing had they done the while 
But watched each other with a smile; 



276 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Nought had thej^ ate, but aye askance. 
The whole time met each other's glance. 
And nought hut simple child-like speech, 
Had pass'd the while from each to each. 
Two such love-sick mortals, I ween, 
As they were, ne'er before were seen. 
And not until the^^ heard the laugh, 
Did either eat, or red wine quaflT, 
And even then their mouthfuls were 
81owly prepared, and very spare, 
Scarce they ate at all, I ween, 
Their mouthfuls small and far between. 

XV. 

The feast was o'er, and from the hall 
Throng 'd out the merr}^ feasters all, 
Some roam'd among the woodlands green. 
Some down along the sea were seen, 
Some stretched themselves in sluggard's 

ease — 
To rest beneath the shadj' trees. 
And many sought a cool retreat, 
To waste the day in slumber sweet. 
But far from all the rest aloof, 
Near a turret on the lofty roof, 
Alice Mosman, Guj' Harold too, 
With ruby lipped lanthe drew. 
Silent a while the trio stood, 
Yiewing sea, tall hill and waving wood. 
At length lanthe smiling said. 
" Just ere we unto feasting aped, 
As you did in the hall appear 
Hunyadi me to him drew near. 
And softly whispered in mine ear. 
So neither one of you could hear, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 2T7 

lanthe take this loving pair, 
And give them introduction fair. 
Find at the board for each a space, 
And side by side these lovers place, 
When you have found for each a seat, 
Pile high their plates with all things sweet, 
But do not watch them while they eat, 
When the feast is done, unto the roof 
Take you the twain, then keep aloof. 
And it shall be to your behoof, 
Of this I'll shortly give you proof " 



XVI. 



Thus spake the child who little knew 
'Twas from her words the blushes 2:rew. 
That spread their hues of crimson dye, 
O'er each flush 'd face that met her eye. 
Who all the while, abashed and coy, 
Each other ey'd with growing jo}-, 
Felt a keen thrill their bosoms fill, 
Which seem'd to bow them 'neath its will ; 
They spake not, but their eyes confessed 
The tender feelings of each breast. 
Dead silence reigned a little space. 

And each seemed rooted to their place 

Though they were statues standing there, 

'Till thus began the rosy heir. 

" Harold to me and Alice tell 

The story of the Lovers' Well, 

You promised it a week ago, 

And I would fain the story know. 

Tell us this now and I'll no more — 

Ask you to tell of tales of yore." 

" When I was a boy,'' the seaman said 

" As together round the world we sped, 



218 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

My father oft wild legends told 
About a daring race of old — 
He styled the lords of Lyolynn, 
"Who in old time did glor}^ win 
Mid wars alike on land and flood, 
In scenes of peace as well as blood. 
And this story that I tell 3'ou now, 
Happened in this tower, I trow. 
For my father spoke of Castle Flame, 
"When unto me he told the same. 

The Lovers' Well. 



Osci, a lord of Lj^olynn, 

In ancient time did glory win, 

Far famed was he o'er land and wave, 

And styled the bravest of the brave, 

Bold was his heart, and strong his hand, 

His sword in war the lightning's brand. 

Swift as it lays. the forests low — 

His blade destroj-ed his stately foe, 

To the oppressed a friend was he. 

He made their fierce oppressors flee. 

He was the weak one's sword and shield — 

By day or night, on flood and field, 

"With joy the poor his presence hail'd 

Before him all the tyrants quail'd. 

No braver man in battle van — 

Has through a slaughter press 'd. 

Nor braver since the race began 

Was e'er in armor drest, 

None nobler e'er in listed ring 

Has placed a spear in rest, 



THE HETR OF LYOLYNN. 219 

Or any prize from battle bring, 
Or after glory quest. 

II. 

The day was bright, the sun was warm, 

The breeze was blowing free, 

Round liis bark that oft faced the storm 

Roird high a sparkling sea. 

And o'er his vessel's sable prow 

The mighty Osci lean'd, 

His polished helm, his manly brow 

From scorching sunbeams screen'd. 

His large blue eye clear as the sky, 

Or as the placid sea, 

Watched o'er the waters rolling high, 

A corsair sailing free. 

Towards Algiers full weL he knew 

That vessel plowed the waves. 

That she was mann'd with savage crew, 

And loaded down with slaves. 

With sails all spread unto the wind, 

He gave the corsair chase, 

The laughing billows roll'd behind, 

As o'er them sped the race. 

Glittering billows roll'd behind. 

And sparkling roll'd before, 

As on and on before the wind 

They sped the waters o'er. 

On, on, o'er leagues of roaring brine 

The flying vessels sped, 

Behind the billows rose in line, 

And ranlc like rose ahead. 

Still, still narrower grew the space 

The bounding ships between, 

'Till side by side in fearful race 



280 ' THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

The hostile barks were seen. 

'Till scarce a yard of ocean's face 

The twain did intervene. 

Together bark with bark was lashed 

By Osci's dauntless crew, 

Though high o'er them the billows dashed, 

And sea foam o'er them flew. 

III. 

An hundred men as bold and stout, 

As ever fought in fray, 

As ever caused their foeman's rout 

By either night or day. 

In line stood on the corsair's deck, 

All arm'd from head to heel, 

Ready for triumph or for wreck, 

An awful ridge of steel. 

With tall morions polished sheen, 

And breast-plates trimm'd the same, 

Bright shields and spears and broad-swords 

keen, 
They seem'd a ridge of flame. 

IV. 

Not swifter leaps the lion bold 

Forth from his fearful den, 

At midnight on the awe-struck fold. 

Then sprung fierce Osci then. 

Not grimmer comes the avalanche 

Adown the mountain tall — 

Tearing all rocks like doated branch 

That chance to bar its fall — 

Than came that chief with all his band 

Upon the corsair crew, 

With clashing shield and flaming brand 

They on the pirates flew. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 281 

Fierce fought for liberty and life 

The corsair's savage horde, 

And long the air with sound was rife 

Of breaking shield and sword, 

But fiercer Osci waged the strife 

And pirates' life-blood pour'd 

And ere the sun went down from sight, 

And night closed o'er the main, 

He poured a glad and glowing light 

On heaps of pirates slain. 

And showed upon that corsair's deck 

No pirate breathing left. 

All stretched around in gory wreck 

With heads and helmets cleft. 

V. 

As beams the iris midst the clouds 

When dies the thunder-storm — 

So from the throng the corsair crowds 

Comes forth a female form ; 

Her sweet young face beam'd like the moou 

Seen in a stormy sky,' 

Her smile was like the sun's at noon, 

When no clouds o'er him fly. 

Her coral lips and pearly teeth 

Were perfect as could nature rear. 

And white as snow on Northern heath 

Her breast and arms appear. 

Her brow was fiiir, and bright beneath 

Her eyes flashed dark and clear, 

O'er neck and shoulders a sable wreath 

Waved folds of raven hair. 

Her lovely form from heel to head 

Was harmony complete. 

And beauty a grand halo shed 



282 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

O'er all ber being sweet. 

Her form was cast within tbat mold 

The best dame nature yet could plan, 
When she did all her strength unfold, 
And showed her noblest work to man, 
When she from out her treasures vast, 
Ere on her fell sin and sorrow's blast; 
Her best elements together brought, 

And on the shrine of Beauty wrought 

A being with all glory fraught— 
With angel's form and seraph's thought, 
The choicest thing she 3et could plan, 
And gave that grandest work to maul 

VI. 

Midst all my frays, bold Osci said, 
On land or yet on flood, 
No fairer prize to me has sped 
In form of flesh and blood. 
For fairer ne'er was wed by king, 
Nor nestled to his side. 
Unto Castle Flame that maid I'll bring, 
And she shall tend my bride. 
^ Her pure white, snowy hands shall on 

My blooming Edith wait, 
No fitter one her robes to don, 
And tend upon my mate. 

VII. 

To Castle Flame the maid was brought, 

Hagar w^as the fair one named. 

By peer and knight the maid wis sought. 

For far w^as her beauty famed. 

And many came to woo and win 

The maid of Osci's bride, 

But ere the wooing did begin, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 283 

She to each her maid denied. 

Oft the suitors furious grew 

At Osei's lady fair, 

When she from their longing ej^es withdrew 

Her maid with raven hair. 

Oft in listed ring with spear in rest, 

Against proud knight arrayed, 

Was Osci in his armor drest 

To battle for the maid. 

Many a suitor's shield was cleft, 

And morion rent in twain, 

By Osci of their life bereft. 

Ere they deemed their wooing vain. 

As time rollVl on of Osei's bride 

A female child was born, 

A babe fair as was e'er espied 

By glowing beams of morn ; 

As sweet a babe as ever smiled, 

Or yet with life did start. 

She who in after years was styled, 

Edith of the Cruel Hcai-t. 

VIII. 

To tend the babe both night and day, 

Was none like Hagar found, 

Though 'mongst the maids 'neath Osei's 

sway, 
Did gentle ones abound. 
And to her mistress day by day 
More precious Hagar grew 
Than her, 'mongst all beneath her sway- 
No dearer prize she knew. 
And the suitors proud and high 
Who sought the maid to wed — 



284 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Were from the castle forced to fly, 
Or be by Osci bled. 

IX. 

'Twas on one warm and sultry day, 
No breath of breezes stirr'd, 
Midst aspen leaves no slightest play 
Of wind was seen nor heard. 
The massive walls round Castle Flame, 
'Of granite gray and dun, 
Nigh hot as molten ore became 
Beneath the scorching sun. 
No single bird upon its wing 
Was seen to move that day, 
But sat all like a lifeless thing 
Amidst the leafy spray. 
The herds 'neatli boughs of stately trees 
Lay panting with the heat, 
E'en in their hives the busy bees 
Did from the glare retreat. 
'Mongst grass that once luxuriant grew 
Upon the pastures wide — 
No sign of verdure met the view, 
But wilted was and dried. 
Far away the waveless sea 
As molten silver beam'd, 
Lifeless all nature seem'd to be 
Though all 'neath sunshine gleam 'd. 
High on a moss-clad rock that there 
Looms o'er vast floods of brine, 
Osci lay midst the sultry air 
Beneath a spreading pine, 
And by his side his lady fair 
Did on the moss recline, 
Long had they grieved that their fair home, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 285 

That rose so high in air, 

That looked o'er leagues of sea and foam. 

O'er hills and valleys fair, 

Could of water no supply obtain, 

No crystal spring nor well, 

No water save which from the rain 

Within the cisterns fell. 

One half my lands, bold Osci spake, 

I freely would bestow 

To him who through these rocks can break, 

To where pure waters flow 

Though oft the task I undertake 

I can no water show. 

If oaily here we had a well 

Of waters cold and clear, 

There'd be no place on hill or dell. 

One tenth so grand as here, 

Nor would we feel these droughts so fell 

That last one half the year. 



While thus he spake he saw a man 

Ride towards his castle gate 

And at his rear a caravan 

Came on in lordly state. 

A dozen camels huge and strong 

Groan 'd 'neath their heavy load 

As their harsh driver's scourging thong 

Fast urged them up the road. 

Bold Osci and Edith fair 

The horseman soon espied, 

And up the slope in swift career, 

Unto the twain he hied. 

Hail, he said, Thou lord of Castle Flame 

And thou his lady bright. 



286 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

May ever}' joy that earth can name, 

Attend ye day and night. 

For ye are the comeliest pair 

That ever yet were wed, 

That ever met in castle fair, 

In humblest cot or shed. 

Thou art the truest knight and best 

That ever armor wore. 

That ever placed a lance in rest, 

Or rode 'midst battle's roar. 

Conspicuous thy lady bright — 

Moves amongst the female line. 

As doth the full sphered moon at night 

The glimmering stars out shine. 

To ye most high and noble pair, 

I've come what e'er befall, 

Kansom bring for a captive fair, 

That here ye hold in thrall. 

A maid you off a corsair brought, 

Some two long years ago, 

Through all this time for her I've souglit, 

In peril, pain and woe. 

But late I chanced to learn that here 

You captive hold that maid, 

So name her price, how ever dear, 

Her ransom shall be paid. 

A smile apace o'er Osci's face, 

Broke as thus spake the man. 

And when he ceased a little space, 

Bold Osci thus began. 

XI. 

The maid I from the corsair brought, 

Is no more own'd b^^ me, 

And if she were, I vow, there's nought 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNM. 28T 

Would make me set lier free. 

Unto my wife the maid belongs 

And you must treat with her, 

See if all gold your coffer throngs 

She'll to her maid prefer. 

"While thus they spake a loud scream rang 

Within the castle near, 

And from a spacious door-way sprang 

Hagar the young and fair. 

For well that horseman's form she knew 

Soon as he near'd the place. 

Into his arms she panting liew, 

They met in one embrace. 

Hagar and Hagan from their lips 

The self same moment burst. 

Love which no sorrow could eclipse, 

Which each through 3'ears had nursed, 

Well'd up within each faithful heart, 

And glowing fill'd each soul. 

Love which from neither could depart, 

But throughout all their beings dart, 

Though ruin be its goal. 

XIT. 

In vain, in vain poor Hagan sought 

To set the captive free, 

In vain his costly gifts he brought 

For Edith's eyes to see. 

In vain he proffered glowing wares 

Of gold and silver bright, 

Huge urns of gold piled up in tiers, 

That shone with ruddy light, 

In vain he offered flashing wares 

Of every shade and hue, 

Rich silks and velvets and cashmires 



288 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Of crimson and of blue. 

Fabrics the choicest and the best 

That ever came from looms, 

Yast robes of furs all richly drest, 

And countless gems and plumes, 

And urns of spices that possessed 

The sweetest of perfumes. 

In vain, in vain he offered these, 

And chests of shining gold, 

Gifts that could fail no eye to please, 

All gorgeous to behold. 

In vain on earth he humbly kneel'd. 

And begg'd at Edith's feet, 

Her heart to all his pra^'er was steel'd, 

Though long he did entreat. 

And told her how long years ago 

He'd Hagar wooed and wed, 

And just as froai the altar he 

His happy bride had led, 

In rushed amidst the wedding feast 

Men clad in steel arraj' , 

Who felled him senseless with their blows 

And bore his bride away. 

Told how in search of her he had 

Travelled o'er sea and shore, 

Entreated her to ransom take, 

And Hagar to restore. 

Reward him for his faithful search. 

And riving woes he bore, 

Hagan she said, while still he kneel'd, 

And vainly did implore. 

Sooner this rock shall water yield. 

Than I'll thy bride restore. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 239 

XIII. 

Up to his feet the lover sprang, 

And grasped fair Edith's hand, 

And said with clear, deep voice that rang 

As weired music o'er the land, 

You promise, that if within this rock 

I well of water find, 

You will to me my bride restore. 

Nor as j'our hand-maid hold her more, 

Nor deal witli us unkind, 

Now promise this upon your oath, 

And 1 will shortly see — 

If God has form'd this flinty hill — 

Of crystal waters free. 

I promise it, fair Edith said 

While smiles bright as the morn — 

All o'er her rosy face were spread — 

Though mix'd with pride and scorn- 

I promise it, and if I fail 

To set your Hagar free, 

Soon as I here within this rock 

A well of water see, 

May everlasting woe and bale 

Forever light on me. 

XIV. 

Down through the huge and flinty rock 
That seem'd at all their toil to mock, 
Poor Hagan and his little band 
Toil on with willing heart and hand. 
For three long jears they tug and strain, 
And delve with all their might and main, 
Ply shovel, hoe and pick and bar, 
Yet, from water they seem distant far. 
They delve one hundred fathoms deep, 



2;'0 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Yet, hopeful to their task they keep 
Toil on with willing hand and mind 
Though no least trace of water find. 
Down, down they delve, still deeper down, 
Yet, no success their toil doth crown. 
They delve 'till ever}^ arm and hand 
Is worn and weak in Ilagan's band. 
'Till ever}^ heart is grim with care. 
And loaded hcav}^ with despair I 
And scarce a hand save Ilagan's own 
Breaks through the hard, unyielding stone. 
At length a jo3'Ous shout is heard. 
And sounds one solitary w'ord ; 
One only word is on their tongues, 
With all the might of human lungs 
From out the well the}^ make it fl^-. 
And water, water, is the cr^', 
A well of waters clear as daj' 
Did Hagan's 3ears of toil repa3\ 
Oh, who can tell the joy he knew. 
When first that water met his view 1 
When worn and weak he turn'd to see — 
His toil had set his Hagar free I 
True love the fearful task had done, 
And he his long lost bride had won. 
May love be alwaj^s thus repaid, 
And God true love forever aid. 

XV. 

Water, water, the j03-ous sound, 
Has echo in the castle found, 
And water is the only word 
That's in the spacious castle heard. 
And water Hagar joyous cries. 
As into Hagan's arms she flies. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 291 

Water, water, startled Edith soreams, 
And starts like one from dismal dreams. 
From castle to the well she hies. 
And by it stands in dumb surprise. 
Down o'er her face and forehead fair 
Stream her loose folds of sable hair, 
Bright beneath her da,rk eyes glare, 
And fix on Hagar rigid stare. 
Bewildered for a while she stands. 
Then with her small, white, jeweled hands. 
Back from her face her hair she flings. 
Her form to its full height she brings, 
And tiger-like on Ilagar springs. 
Who yet unto her Hagan clings, 
At Hagar 's form she grasps amain, 
And strives to part the faithful twain, 
Though all her strength for this is vain ! 
She's mine, still mine fierce Edith shrieks. 
And color flies her haughty cheeks, 
Wliile from her eye-balls black as night. 
Gleams forth a strange, unearthly light. 
And seeming envy, hate and ire, 
Sliake her form with tremors dire. 
Quivered her lips with fell disdain. 
As thus she shrieks again, again. 
With form that seem'd convulsed with pain, 
That throbb'd through every nerve and vein. 
She's mine and such shall still remain. 
For no gifts nor toil I loose her chain. 
The time no living soul shall see—' 
That willingly I set her free. 
With voice that well his grief bespoke, 
On Edith's speech sad Hagan broke. 
Years of captivity and woes. 
And toil for thee poor Hagar knows ; 



292 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Six years she has thy captive seen, 

Six years of toil and sorrow keen. 

All ransom have I paid to thee, 

For which thou swore to set her free I 

I deem'd thy promise was sincere. 

That thou wouldst to thy vow adhere. 

And still I liope and fondly trust, 

Thou wilt unto thy oath be just. 

That thou wilt set poor Hagar free, 

This instant hid her wend with me. 

Vain are thy hopes, Edith fierce replies, 

Hagar hides with me 'till she dies, 

I'll not release her unto thee, 

So thou need plead no more with me. 

Let go my maid and fly from here, 

Or thou must for thy death prepare, 

Haste forth' this instant take thy flight, 

Or feel how keen the sword doth bite, 

XVI. 

Then, obedient to her call. 

Thronged round a hundred warriors tall, 

All arm'd are they from head to heel, 

In gleaming sheathes of clanging steel. 

And flashing axe, or spear, or brand, 

Rise keen in every warriors hand, 

As at Edith's side they take their stand 

And ready wait for her command. 

Now Hagan fly, she says, haste, G.y, 

Or 3'OU and all j^our band shall die, 

Begone, nor dare to twit me more — 

I'm false to anj^ oath I swore. 

Haste, haste, begone with all your crew. 

Or they shall slaughtered be with you. 

And if they die, on you the crime 



THE HEIR OF LYCLYNN. 293 

Will surely rest throughout all time, 
For now I ample warning give, 
And bid you fly, if you would live. 
While thus she speaks poor Hagan's band, 
Came up and by him take their stand. 
They're arm'd with pick and bar and spade. 
And tools with which the well was made. 
With arms unto the elbow bare, 
And breasts that know no thought of fear 
Although no shining steel they wear. 
Confront the gleaming sword and spear. 
Of faithless, heartless Edith's band. 
Who all in moody silence stand. 



XVII. 



Fierce as the cloud of coming storm, 
When round it flash the lightnings warm. 
Tall Hagan rears his stately form, 
As Edith's warriors round him swarm. 
O'er all his face a hue is spread — ■ 
Less like the living than the dead. 
Dark wave his brows, while bright beneath 

As sabres flashing from their sheath 

His eyes pour forth an awful light, 
Like fierce meteors of the night, 
When of dread famine they fortell 
Of pestilence or earthquake fell. 
While thus to Edith and his band 
He speaks so all can understand. 
Deem not with threat 'ning spear and sword, 
To drive me from my bride adored. 
Think not one of my band nor I, 
At your command will quail nor fly, 
Who break a solemn oath they swear, 
In us cau breed no thought of fear. 



2S4 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And here we stand as true as steel 
To meet all vengeance you can deal ; 
Though here all weaponless I stand, 
Ready am I to meet your band. 
Nor one there is amongst them all 
For you would dare to risk my fall, 
If sheathed in steel like they I stood 
With spear or axe or broad-sword good. 
Bring forth your best and bravest man. 
That 3'ou can find amongst your clan, 
And give me weapons and a shield. 
You'll see who best the sword can wield. 
And if he best the sword shall pi}'. 
If I beneath his valor die. 
Or like a coward from him fly, 
Then let my Hagar be his slave, 
And hand-maid 'till she fills her grave. 
But if I shall the victor be. 
If God the triumph give to me, 
Than she and I from here go free, 
And all my friends that here you see. 
Be it so. Edith quick replies, 
And you shall fall, or win your prize — 
With horse and spear in listed ring, 
In deadly fray with prince and king- 
And if they cause your overthrow, 
One thing at least the world shall know, 
Great was the hand that dealt the. blow. 
And laid the faithful Hagan low. 
But, if you do the triumph gain, 
By 3'ou be prince and hero slain, 
Your fame o'er Christendom shall go, 
And all of Hagan's deeds shall know. 
And just as surely as I live. 
Your Hagar unto you I'll give. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 2^5 

Then trembling, as o'erwheimed with fear, 
She moves to Hagan still more near, 
Pressed her lips close upon his ear, 
And speaks what none but he can hear. 
Hagan, she says. Oh, blame not me, 
For now not setting Hagar free I 
Would God, that I could yield her up, 
Nor let her liaste of sorrow's cup ! 
But all yon throng of warriors grim, 
Some giants both in thews and limb, 
Have journied here to woo 30ur bride. 
To all she has her love denied, 
Faithful to j^ou she still remains, 
And all their proffered love disdains. 
This morn they vow'd as with one voice — 
That I of them should make my choice, 
Choose one ere eve and let them know — 
On wliom I would the maid bestow. 
And if in this I fail'd, they swore 
They'd stain my castle all with gore; 
My towers raze, to embers burn, 
And all I own'd to ruin turn. 
And since my Osci is away — 
In distant country waging fray, 
And there perhaps long time may stay, 
I, now must needs their voice obey. 
But I will sheathe you all in steel, 
In armor strong irom head to heal. 
Give you a war-horse fleet and bold. 
As ever yet was bought or sold. 
So meet them all in listed ring. 
And slaughter pile with prince and king ; 
Their cause is wrong, and yours is just, 
You God shall shield from blow and thrust, 
So stretch the suitors in the dust, 



29R THE HEin OP LYOLYNN. 

It's your fate to sla^^ them and j-ou must. 
So haste and in bright steel be drest. 
And 'gainst them nobly do your best. 

XVIII. 

Soon sheathed in armor strong and sheen, 
By Hagar's hand is Ilagan seen. 
Upon his head the helm she placed, 
And o'er his face the visor laced. 
A shield he dons and to his hand 
Is given gleaming spear and brand. 
As some grim tower tall and strong — » 
He stands before the suitor throng, 
A perfect knight from spur to plume, 
As e'er did garb of war assume. 
Soon on a charger huge and strong. 
He's seen by all the suitor throng, 
And thus with voice of haughty tone — 
By him to them is challenge thrown. 
Come forth ye princes proud and high, 
Let's see which best the spear can ply. 
And see Avhich best the sword can wield, 
Which first can cleave both helm and shield. 
He who shall victor o'er me xide. 
To him I give my blooming bride. 
And she is fair ye all will vow. 
As e'er was seen on earth 'till now. 
The daughter .of a king is she, 
Greater than any one of ye. 
Whose fame outstrips ye all so high, 
Not one of ye with him can vie ; 
The offspring of a king am I. 
Come meet me heroes spear to spear, 
And win the fairest of the fail : 



THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 29? 

Or as base cowards proved and tried 
ril brand ye o'er the nations wide. 

XIX. 

Then at his haughtj- challenge rose 
A sullen murmur 'mongst his foes, 
And cries of rage and hate and shame 
From out that throng of suitors came. 
Their steeds stood harnessed in the stall, 
And grooms were ready at their call. 
Straight, obedient to their word 
Their steeds were swift beside them spurred . 
To horse, to horse, in haste they sprang, 
And loud arose the deadly clang, 
As spears and swords and armor rang, 
And one from out the suitor throng — 
A haughty hero tall and strong. 
Struck deep his spurs in charger's gore, 
Like thunder bolt on Hagau bore. 
As on he came in fierce career 
Brave Hagan met him spear to spear. 
But vain he strives 'gainst Hagan 's force, 
Down instant fell both man and horse. 
Upon the earth he breathless went. 
His mighty spear to splinters rent, 
Lifeless he fell before the shock, 
While Hagan stood like moveless rock, 
First of that fated suitor band 
How SAvift in death he press'd the sand I 
Another came in swift career 
And on his breast met Hagan's spear, 
Through plates of steel the weapon tore, 
Its passage through his bosom bore. 
And dripping red and grim with gore, 
Stood out a yard behind and more. 



298 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Forth from the wound his trusty spear- 
In moment's space did Hagan tear, 
And dead upon the dust and sand 
Fell one more of the suitor band. 
On others came, their valor tried, 
'Till full a score liad hied and died. 
While all uuharm'd from heel to head — 
Brave Hagan waged the combat dread, 
A fearful carnage round him spread, 
The blood of haughty princes shed. 

Meanwhile his trust}' band, though few, 
Had sheathed themselves in armor too, 
With spear and axe and gleaming brand. 
On rushed his small but trusty band. 
On foot and some on horse they came. 
To share their master's deadly game : 
And right and left their blows thc}^ deal, 
Pierce deep through plates of gleaming 

steel ; 
Full on the suitor train the}' charge, 
And cleft is brazen helm and targe. 
Loud rise the sounds of blow and thrust, 
And warriors fall midst gory dust. 
On, on they fight 'till every hand 
Is worn and Aveak in Hagan's band. 
Yet still th2y war, 'till all their foes — 
Are stark and grim in death's repose. 
They war 'till not a foe is left 
Whose head and morion is not cleft. 
Or whose thick plates of broken steel — 
Through breasts broad, horrid wounds 

reveal. 
They war 'till every foe is found 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 299 

Amidst the reeking carnage round 

Ilis task once more had Hagan done, 

And once again his Hagar won ; 

And ere that day went down the sun — 

To him his Hagar was restored ; 

Hagar the adoring and adored. 

Soon back unto their native land 

They journied with their trusty band, 

Lived long a life of joy and love, 

Serene as shines the sun above. 

And if from out the dreary past, 

A shadow e'er their bliss oVr cast, 

It only served to make their love 

Rise surer all their cares above ; 

Kept ever on a vast increase — 

Their weal, their happiness and peace. 

And may the just and righteous lord 

For ever thus true love reward. 

Though more than thousand years havepast. 

And shadows o'er the story cast. 

Yet their memory doth not fade ; 

And still the deep, deep well they made, 

In use by Castle Flame is found, 

Deep delved amidst the rocky ground. 

Old bards of it this story tell: 

And it is call'd, The Lovers' Well." 

XVII. 

Then, just as ceased Guy Harold's lay, 
Noiselessly as might glide a fJxy, 
Off the roof lanthe stole away ; 
And all alone the twain stood there, 
With none their words of love to hear 
And their alone they still remain'd — 
'Til shades of evening round them reign 'd. 



300 THE HEia OF LYOLYNN. 

They heeded not the sun's decline, 
Nor marked his parting glories shine — 
With tints of lustre all divine 
O'er distant forest, hill and brine. 
Saw not the clouds of glowing gold 
That over half the heavens roUM ; 
Heard not the roaring thunder blast, 
That dark'ning all the world o'er cast, 
That all the sea in fury tost, 
'Till it in mist from sight was lost, 
And looked like one vast cloud of spray, 
When gleam xl on it the sun-set's ray, 
Nor mai'ked the rainbow's glowing form 
That sanctified the roaring storm. 
That spread its arch across the world, 
Like hope's bright banner there unfurled. 
That promised peace and joy to man. 
And all that did its glor}^ scan. 
Their souls were full of bliss and love. 
These rose all other thoughts above. 
Their hearts were full of only joy 
^ Unmixt, untainted with alio}-. 

All the bright happiness thc^ knew. 
From their pure vows of friendship) grew ; 
But of the vows that passed between — 
Were useless now to tell, I ween, 
Save this, ere from tlie roofthe}' moved. 
His promised bride was Alice proved. 

XVIII. 

The shades of night began to fall. 

The mists from seas commenced to crawl, 

And spread o'er earth their silent pall, 

'Till darkness gathered over all. 

Yet through the misty folds of night 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 301 

The stars sent forth a feeble light, 

Sent through the gloom their welcomed 

glow, 
As though to cheer the earth below ; 
Glimmering amidst the murky cope 
Like feeble ra^'S of bliss and hope — 
That faintly light a troubled soul. 
When sorrow holds the chief control. 
But long ere night its gloom had shed, 
Hunj'adi'd from the castle sped, 
To a place in Roger's cavern drew, 
Where he unseen, all things could view. 
Down through a winding shaft he went 
Which air unto the cave gave vent, 
A secret passage dense with gloom, 
Which led to that ctiVe's largest room, 
A passage which full well he knew 
Save unto him was known to few. 
Concealed amidst its gloom he lay, 
So silent as is lifeless clay ; 
And in the spacious room below, 
Where did but one small taper glow, 
Right plainly could Ilunyadi see — 
George Mosman and old Roger Lea. 
Right keenly from his hiding place 
He looked on each man's anxious face, 
Lea's greater signs of sorrow wore 
Than it had borne one month before. 
Upon his pale, sad, wrinkled brow. 
Seemed gathered sorrows past and now ; 
But though 'twas shadowed all with care, 
It bore no symptom of despair. 
Sad was his face, but bold his mien, 
And in his pale gray ej-es were seen 
A Hght that still unceasing glared, 



302 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

As if through them his spirit stared, 
And told with speech that all could hear — 
That spirit was unlvnowii to fear, 
Nor had it ever harbored there 
The slightest atom of despair. 
Before a tahle long and broad, 
That was with strange devices scored, 
He reclined within a cushioned chair. 
His feet did on the table bear, 
His brawny arms at perfect rest, 
Were folded o'er his swelling breast, 
His round and statelj' head was bare, 
Down hung at length his thin gray hair, 
'Neath huge white brows his eye-ball;? 

glared, 
And on the face of Mosman stared'r 
O'er the board opposite of him, 
George Mosman sat with features grim 
..His feet were on the table thrown, 
"Within his mouth a pipe was shown. 
And 'tween each sentence that he spoke, 
His mouth gave volumes vast of smoke. 
Strong semblence he to Omar bore, 
The same black bush}^ hair he woi^e, 
The same thick, heavy, sable beard, 
Was over all his features laired, 
The same hooked nose and forehead high. 
And black, wily, treacheous e^^e, 
That flashed 'neath shaggy brows like flame, 
But tall and broader was his frame. 
But sluggishness was round it thrown, 
Which never was to Omar known ; 
Though greater far its breadth and length, 
It showed not half the skill and strength. 
The tough and hard}-, agile mien, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 303 

As was in Omar ever seen, 

Nor had he the bold, dauntless air, 

That did his kinsman Omar bear, 

Mosman would truckle, stoop and bend 

Alike to any foe or friend, 

Lean and depend on other's aid, 

And ever to offend afraid, 

While Omar on himself relied 

And every living thing defied. 

His voice was soft and meek and mild. 

Gentle as si^eeeh of maid or child. 

But that of Omar's deep and loud, 

Sonorous, boisterous and proud; 

XIX. 

Thus at the table sat the pair. 

Talking o'er past and coming care; 

Lea seem'd to have a larger share 

Of trouble than he well could bear 

Grief seem'd to all his being range, 

For on that morn at Mosman's grange, 

He did with Zurn and Omar part, 

Who did for poor lanthe start; 

Receiving gold the day he spent, 

To him was paid a whole year's rent 

Of all his houses and his lands, 

And hoard was poured unto his hands, 

Treasure a thousand pound and more. 
In silver bright and yellow ore. 
Within a sack the coin he flung, 
Across his steed the bag he swuno-, 
Behind where his bright treasure hung, 
Old Roger in his saddle sprung. 
And onward with his precious load 
Towards the Bower of Bliss he rode. 



304 THE HEIR OF LYOLYXX. 

Night o'er took him, and through the dark 
Scarce any object he could mark. 
So dense the bushes round him grew 
He could no more his path pursue, 
Soon to a tree he tied his steed, 
So ic might on the grasses feed, 
That rank beneath the bushes grew, 
Grass rich as ever courser knew, 
And over worn with that day's toil 
Lea lay down on the grassy soil, 
Ten minutes perhaps, not more, 
Sweet slumber stole his senses o'er ; 
But when from slumber he awoke, 
A pang as from a lightning's stroke — 
Throughout his soul and senses broke, 
For all his sack of gold he found, 
Which he had to his charger bound, 
Some thief had come and made his prey, 
Yea, stripped it clean, ta'en all away. 
Down near the earth he placed his ear, 
In hopes some footstep he could hear. 
But not a footstep, stir nor sound, 
He heard o'er all that bushy ground. 
When morning came he searched around, 
But no where could his hoard be found, 
Nor sign of any one was seen. 
O'er all that wilderness of green. 
And with a soul with trouble frought, 
Alone the Bower of Bliss he sought, 
Vowing that he the thief would find, 
And deal most deadly with the hind. 
One thought the while possessed his soul, 
And held all others in control. 
And thus in speech that thought he gave, 
As fast he sought his lonely cave, 



THE IIEIR or LYOLYNX. 305 

It was Hugh Mosman stole my gold, 
No other thief would be so bold, 
Else his brother George did the deed, 
'Twas some one of the Mosman breed. 
Bat this thought he to none revealed, 
Close kept it in his soul concealed, 
Waiting with anxious, fixed belief — 
He'd shortly find the cunning thief, 
Though well he knew none of the hoard 
Would ever be to him restored. 
But other troubles dark and drear, 
Weighed down his soul with gloomy care. 
Murdered had Peter Zurn been found, 
And tidings had been noised around, 
That Brady and all of Zurn's crew. 
The crime on Lea and Omar threw. 
And soon the^'^'d come and on the twain 
Pour vengeance down like floods of rain. 
But for this Roger was prepared, 
And all their hate and fury dared. 
It seemed De Yaux's sudden fall, 
Stirred up his sorrow worst of all. 
Since Omar I have lost he said, 
In him my truest friend is dead. 
With him through perils I have past. 
And by his aid won treasures vast, 
And by his aid 1 still had plann'd. 
To win me treasures vast and grand. 
But since he's dead, those plans are o'er 
For such aid will be mine no more. 
I've roamed the world, and know 'tis true 
Such men as him are all too few 
To aid in deeds that I pursue. 
Therefore his death I deeply rue, 
I never thought that any hand 



306 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Like his could wield the knife or brand, 

Nor with a pistol hit its mark. 

In day time or at niid]:ight dark. 

His worth I never rightly knew 

While here the breath of life he drew, 

Oh, often have I slighted him. 

And used him all too harsh and grim, 

Which never should be done again, 

Where he not sleeping with the slain, 

Alas, we mortals never know, 

The worth of things possessed below, 

"Till they are taken far above, 

Our reach of use, hate and love 1 

Yes, this seems to be our fate, 

To learn it, when it's all too late 

As thus he spake his voice grew hoarsei 

And instant lost its deep, strong force. 

Silent he sat a little space, 

A tear rolled down his wrinkled face, 

The first one ever caused through woe. 

That ever down his cheek did flow. 

But soon he dashed his grief awa}', 

As rocks beat off the ocean's spray, 

Disdainful hold its flood at hay, 

However fierce its billows i^laA'. 

With \oice all free of dole and pain 

He thus began to speak again. 

XX. 

lanthe all the lands will win, 

Be proved the Heir of Ljolynn, 

And 3'ou've no chance by fraud or stealth, 

To gain one atom of the wealth, 

All is bej'Ond j^our power now, 

It's fate and you to Fate must bow, 



THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 307 

And Mosman, I would like to hear 
Hq-w all the intiest in arrear, 

And mortgages now long since due 

Can unto me be paid by you, 

Some way you must at once propose, 

Or I shall all my claims foreclose, 

I can for you no longer wait, 

For I must settle my estate. 

To this George Mosman answer made : 

I trust all claims will soon be paid, 

For all the lands I soon shall win. 

Yea, heir each foot of Lj-olj-nn, 

I have a plan that will succeed, 

And none of Omar's aid I need. 

You need not look on me with scorn, 

To Castle Flame this very morn 

I brought my daughter Alice fair, 

And left her with the youthful heir, 

A month or more she'll there remain. 

They'll one another's friendship gain. 

And this will happen you will see. 

For these young maidens cousins be. 

And in the very first degree. 

And when my child shall homeward range. 

She'll bring lanthe to the grano-e 

And sure when once I have her there. 

You trust I'll make myself the heir. 

But in what shape and way and how 

1 will dispose of her, I trow, 

I need not stop to tell you now. 

But I shall heir all Lj-ojdynn, 

However great will be my sin, 

This will be done, you need not fret, 

And I will pa} to you each debt, 

For one year's rent from off those lands 



308 THE HETR OF LYOLYNN. 

Would satisfy all 3'ovir demands, 

At least all you by law could win ! 

Right here abrupt old Lea broke in. 

You like a parrot talk awa^', 

Or like some simple chattering jay. 

That has not sound of sense to say ; 

You know you are on ruin's brink, 

By me 3'ou either swim or sink. 

And loath am I, for times gone past, 

To see 3^011 to destruction cast ; 

And I will give j^ou one more year, 

To pay all interest in arrear, 

If 3'ou will find my stolen hoard, 

And see it unto me restored, 

But think not you b}'' any way. 

Can e'er lanthe make 3'our pre3\ 

Too many friends arc round her now, 

For 3'ou to dare to harm, I trow. 

She has the sculptor Ulrick there, 

I've known him well many a j'car, 

And he will guard her safe and sound, 

E'en though she had none others round, 

His wakeful eye both da_v and night, 

Will always keep that child in sight. 

Besides there is a numerous band 

Of servants aye at her command ; 

Also she has Guy Harold there, 

In courage and in strength a peer 

To twenty mortals such as you ; 

There's Bracklinn, and O'Conna too, 

And he who wrought poor Omar's fall. 

Since thoy took her out of Omar's thrall, 

They will be lionised b}^ all, 

And strut like peacocks through her hall. 

And I trust they will linger thei-e 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 309 

Round the castle many a 3'^ear, 
And there they'll loaf in sloth and ease, 
Disdain to earn their bread on seas. 
You have no utter chance, I trow, 
In any way to harm her now. 
Should she visits with your child exchange, 
You treat her kindly in your grange : 
Who harms her, risks both life and limb, 
His fate would be the gallows grim. ' 
Here as Lea spoke upon the floor 
Outside a step w^as heard, the door 
Received one hasty, sudden knock, 
And from its iron frame the shock 
Reechoed through that cave of rock. 
Whose hand had dealt that sturdy blow — 
Right well did hoary Roger know, 
He oft had heard that knock before, 
And that same foot upon the floor. 
Up from his seat in haste he sprung. 
Back from their holds the bolts he swung. 
Whose rusted hinges creaking rung. 
Soon as the door admittance showed, 
Firm o'er its threshold Johnson strode. 

XXI. 

Roger, he said, I wish with you 
To hold a private word or two. 
So send George Mosman straight away, 
And 3'ou'll know all I have to saj'. 
Hardl}' had Johnson's words been said, 
Than Mosman from the room had fled. 
Right gladly did he hear the door 
Close on its sills with sullen roar, 
For weary had he grown of Lea, 
With Ellenore he wished to be ; 



310 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Strong love he had for hei- conceived, 
And she for him, so all believed. 
Her wished for presence', soon he found 
As through that cavern's lanes lie wound, 
And though her beauty much wasmarr'd, 
For Omar's blows her face had scarr'd, 
Yet comely still that woman seem'd, 
And still her eyes all dazzling beam'd, 
Her step was light, her voice was sweet, 
Her stately form superb and neat. 

XXII. 

Soon as was closed that iron door. 
And bolted all secure once more, 
Johnson the hardy out-lawed man, 
To Lea his speech again began 
Lea, I have learned it's all true 
That Zurn's murder is thrown on you. 
And shortly will liis force be here 
To deal on you revenge severe, 
And straight for this we must prepare, 
To triumph o'er the coming foe. 
And cause his lasting overthrow; 
I have my plans this evening laid, 
And have all our men arrayed. 
Yea, armed each member of 3- our band. 
With pistol, rifle, knife and brand, 
And pledged and sworn is every man 
To slaughter all the foes he can. 
And meanwhile wakeful keep his ej-es. 
So none shall take us by surprise. 
From here unto the distant sea 
Only three narrow paths there be, 
Which will be chosen by the foe, 
Nor you nor I can now foreshow. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 311 

So to let no surprise befall, 

We must keep watch and ward o'er all. 

Zuni's crew all told can scared}^ boast 

A hundred able men at most, 

So we can match them two to one, 

Though lift}' of your band were gone. 

Within each pass an ambuscade 

Of sixty men this eve I laid, 

And so defended is each post. 

Sixty men can repel a host. 

An army vast, a mighty mass, 

And shoot it down like beaten grass, 

O'er which the mountain hail-storms pass, 

Rout it complete ere it could know — 

Whence came the volley of its foe. 

So if they dare to come to night, 

They'll learn how Roger's men can fight. 

Not only this I've done, but more. 

Have placed an ambush near the shore. 

And in it fifty men are seen, 

The choicest of your force, I ween. 

Where they are posted, constant view 

Have they of vessel and of crew, 

It anchored floats a league from shore. 

And has been there a week and more, 

Patiently waiting the return 

Of its bold captain, Peter Zurn, 

Who had with Omar gone they say 

To 3^oung lanthe bring away. 

The fix'd time arrived, but no return, 

So off they went in search of Zurn, 

Whom they found a mass of senseless clay, 

Buzzards eating all his flesh away. 

Then straight on Omar and on you, 

The cause of his decease they threw. 



312 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

But for their talk we do not care, 

To it we'll turn a deafened ear. 

Defy all they can say and dare. 

Well as I've said, hard b}^ the shore, 

I've placed an ambuscade secure, 

Who must wait silent in their hive, 

E'en when the foes on shore arrive, 

Yea, let them unmolested land. 

And draw their boats upon tlie strand. 

Let them towards us their way pursue, 

'Till they are out of sound and view. 

Then swift the boats in ocean throAv, 

With speed unio the vessel row. 

Push on until they mount its deck, 

Like men who nought for danger reck, 

Search it i-ight through from stern to stem, 

And take all treasure found by them. 

Let not a single prize be lost, 

Nor care what blood or life it cost. 

Some of the crew on her will stay. 

And I suppose there'll be some fray. 

But if there is, there's ample pay 

For every life that's cast away, 

For in that ship I know is stored, 

Of golden coin a mighty hoard ; 

I know there's twenty tons and more 

Of silver, gems and golden ore. 

And shortly you'll be well repaid — 

For that huge loss you lately made. 

These are the plans I have devised. 

But Lea, you rather look surprised I 

I see it's just as I surmised — 

You would not like my plans too well. 

But I would like to hear 3'ou tell 

What sort of plans 3'ou would pursue — 



THE HETR OF LYOLYNN. 313 

To carry all things snugl}^ through. 

If, then said Lea, I looked surprised, 

'Twas caused not at the phms devised, 

But it doth me surprise afford — 

To hear Zurn had so rich a hoard. 

Within his leaky vessel stored. 

I thought he little kept on boai'd. 

If this is true, this very night 

We must straight forth from here take 

flight. 
And join the distant ambuscade, 
You have beside the ocean made. 
For when they search that vessel through, 
Which they I know are sure to do. 
Some little gems of mighty cost, 
May amongst our men be lost, 
If neither 30U nor I am by. 
To keep on them a watchful eye. 
So we had better soon be off", 
But hark I methought I heard a cough ! 
Yes, and so did I, Johnson said. 
It came as if from over head. 
Then still as death they sat a while, 
Eyeing eacli other with a smile. 
Their shoulders o'er the board were bent, 
And steady on their elbows leant. 
As they listened for a while intent ; 
Then round the room their gaze they sent, 
Then midst the dusky rocks o'er head 
That were with cobwebs over spread. 
Unto the gloomy shaft on high — 
Each listener turned a piercieng eye. 
But nought but rock as black as night, 
Met either listener's eager sight. 
Silent the}- sat, till Lea began, 



314 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Johnson, think you that any man 
Would be so venturous and daft' 
As dare to venture in yon shaft? 
E'en though should he its entrance find, 
Which is quite doubtful in my mind. 
For you know it starts within a line 
Of rocks that o'er a tarn incline ; 
Midst a precipice, from whose brink 
Methinks all living men would shrink. 
Only one man I know, Johnson said, 
Who through yon shaft would dare to tread, 
Many a day and night ere now 
He's travell'd through its gloom, I trow — 
If all I've heard be reall}' true, 
And this I should have told to you 
Five 3'ears ago methinks and more. 
But I from all of this forbore. 
For private causes just and good, 
And you would sa^' so, yes, you would, 
If 3'ou but all things understood. 
To tell 3'ou those causes, I trow, 
Were all too long and needless now. 
Since he has nought of trouble brought, 
Or to you aught of mischief wrought. 
Here Johnson paused, back in his chair 
He stretched his form in sluggish air, 
A 3'awn and long, deep breath he drew. 
His feet upon the table threw, 
Folded his arms across his breast. 
Placed on his chair his head at rest, 
Drest up his face with lively smile. 
Whistling a spritely tune the while. 
As thus his form he careless bent. 
He looked the acme of content. 
Lea on the speaker fix'd his ej^es, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 315 

But showed no symptom of surprise, 

To bear that any man had dared 

To pass through shafts his cavern aired, 

Yes, had him all so little feared 

As to have in his cave appeared, 

And more perhaps, trod through and 

til rough, 
And all its secret windings knew ; 
Yes, viewed perhaps the mighty hoard 
He had within his cavern stored _ 
Pass'd the strong guard that day and night 
He kept watching o'er that treasure bright, 
And this had done for years no doubt, 
His knowledge and consent without. 

Can it be possible he thought, 

They have me any evil wrought ? 

Can it be true that those I trust 

Are secretly to me unjust? 

Am I deceived, betrayed, disgraced 

By those in whom all faith I placed ? 

Had always deem'd were true to me 

As is the shadow to the tree, 

Which ever by its source is found 

E'en should it fall upon the ground. 

Whom I had deem'd were trusty men 

As ever guarded robber's den ; 

Or as on gory battle field 

Did ever strive their prince to shield, 

And round him formed a gallant ring. 

And fought and died to save that king. 

Yes, like the shadow to the tree, 

No doubt they'll prove themselves to me, 

Which only meets the gazer's sight 

When sun or moon or stars give light, 

But when comes on the rayless night 



316 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 

It "with no warning takes its flight. 
Yes, yes, by men I've reared to wealth, 
Though true it's been through fraud and 

stealtli, 
Have well for all their toil repaid. 
Perhaps e'en now I stand betraj-ed. 
Although these thoughts through Roger's 

soul 
Like floods of seething lava roll. 
Heat it all through from crust to core 
Like furnace full of molten ore. 
And grim distrust throughout his mind 
Sweeps like the desert's burning wind , 
Seem'd blood to rankle in his eyes, 
And on the wall fell spectres rise. 
And every thing his vision sought 
Seem'd into waving motion wrought, 
Like shadows of a blazing fort. 
Or ships that flame in stormy port. 
Yet neither Roger's face nor eyes 
Displayed one atom of surprise. 
Nor showed one slightest sign at all 
Of his dread feelings rise and fall, 
Gave not the faintest trace to view 
Of that gi'im hell his spirit knew. 
He looked all placid as some lake 
O'er which no ruffling tempests break, 
And after scarce a moment's pause, 
Replied, I care not to know your cause, 
Since doubly sure I know that you — 
And all ray men to me are true. 
In fact if it were otherwise, 
And you connived with any spies, 
Or 3^et with au}^ mortal foe 
That would my deeds and secrets know, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. o,». 

And through it was caused your leader's fall 

Then ruin would o'er take ye all, 

For when on earth the tree is cast, 

The life of all Its limbs is past. 

But say who is this fearless one 

Who often through yon shaft has gone ? 

If not a secret, let me know, 

Is he to me a friend or foe ? 

For he who through yon pass would wend, 

I'd surely like to make my friend, 

And with him roam the nations wide. 

To you, the other swift replied, 

He's neither aught of friend nor foe 

At least as well as I do know. 

But he's a man of spirit bright. 

Full of indomitable might. 

And with a form that noblj^ bears 

The lofty spirit that it wears 

For he's endowed with thew and limb 

And so much strength is born in him 

He is in strife a foeman grim, 

And makes for life one's chanc-s slim. 

If met in combat hand to hand 

With either pistol, knife or brand. 

Him from his boyhood I have known 

And nought to me he's ever shown 

But kindliness, goodwill and love, 

Me on that road he's strove to shove 

Which leads to peace and bliss above. 

At wrestling oft we've measured stren^rth 

As oft, I measured my full length 

On earth, like some poor clumsy clown 
For never could I throw him down, 
lie's all a lion's strength and spring 
And any man to earth can fling. 



318 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

'Tis he who waged that fearful strife 
With Omar, and cut sliort liis life. 

XXIII. 

At this, off from his seat Lea sprung 

Sudden as if by adder stung, 

As if with all that vigor strung 

That he possessed when he was 3'oung. 

And swifter than a flush of thought 

His hand round Johnson's throat he 

brought. 
And with a crash prone on the floor 
He down his hardy chieftain bore. 
Desperate was the struggle there, 
And long it lasted 'tween the pair. 
In vain fierce Johnson tugged and strained, 
He still beneath old Lea remained. 
In vain he struggled, for Lea's hold 
He could not from his throat unfold ; 
There firmly placed as iron bands 
Remain 'd the old man boney hands. 
From the vantage Lea'd ta'en at first, 
In vain the other strove to burst. 
And all in vain he struck and tore 
At his old foeman grim and hoar. 
His blows he dodged, and on the floor 
He thumped his head until the blood 
Gushed out, and stream'd in ample flood. 
A hue, dark, livid and aghast. 
The visage of his foe o'er cast. 
Fainter and fainter came his breath, 
Till it was almost still as death. 
I'll teach 3'ou, I this place command. 
Am master over all my band, 
Nor is there one amongst j^ou all 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. - 319 

Need foncy he o'er me can crawl ; 
Old as I am, and bent and hoar, 
My days for fighting are not o'er, 
I can the strongest man o'er throw — 
Who dares to call himself my foe. 
And how dare you let any man 
The secrets of my cavern scan ? 
Yes, all its wealth and wonders see 
Without permission straight from me ? 
You for such deed my foe I hold, 
How dare you act so rash and bold ? 
How dare 3-ou an^- man call friend, 
Who did the life of Omar end ? 
Here paused old Lea, for on his foe 
A sudden glance he chanced to throw, 
And saw he wore the hues of death, 
Nor any symptoms showed of breath. 
Then terror stricken and amazed. 
He on the ghastly features gazed. 
For he found his desperate grasp 
He could not from the throat unclasp. 
His hands would not his will obej', 
Nor to his will his fingers play, 
Grown rigid all as stone had thej , 
Nor from tlie throat would moA^e away. 
All horrified did he behold 
His will no more his grasp controird. 
Oh, God ! aloud he cried, my rage 
Has over come the strength of age 1 
Oh' God ! my rigid, vice-like grasp. 
I cannot from his throat unclasp ! 
And by my men will I be found 
To Johnson's lifeless cai'cass bound ! 
Ah, wherefore did I wage this strife 
With him I love as my own life ! 



320 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Sooner I'd lost my treasures all 
Thau ever to have wrought his fall. 
Rise, Johnson, rise, oh, God arise. 
Nor look at me with glaring eyes ! 
Rise, Johnson, rise, m}' grasp unfold. 
For it's by me no more controll'd, 
God, is it my hands or what I hold. 
That is fast gi'owing icy cold I 

XXIV. 

While thus the old man raA-ed and strove 
With all his might his grasp to move, 
From out that shaft so grim to view 
A coil of rope Tlunyadi threw. 
From shaft it hung unto the floor 
Tied to the rocks above secure, 
And down it gliding swifb as light 
When it's most rapid in its flight, 
Hunyadi met old Roger's sight, 
The floor he trod, and twixt the twain 
He placed his thewy form amain. 
And swift old Roger's rigid grasp 
He did from Johnson's throat unclasp ; 
The fingers cracked with harsh loud sound 
As they were from their hold unbound. 
Prone on the floor he Roger threw 
And from it senseless Johnson drew, 
Whose feeble breathing faintly showed 
A spark of life yet in him glowed. 
Unto his feet old Roger drew, 
And to the door with speed he flew. 
The bolts threw back, tne door threw wide, 
Through it swift as an eagle hied. 
Sped through a passage of his den. 
As he had never sped 'till then. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 321 

E'en when his slaves through it he spurn'd. 
Soon with cold water he return'd, 
To Johnson's livid face he drew, 
And o'er it fast the liquid threw. 
The instant that he felt the flood, 
That moment seem'd to move his blood. 
Breath after breath he stronger drew, 
His visage donn'd less death-like hue. 
When Lea the door had open tlirown, 
A vent unto the air was shown 
And strong between it and tlie shaft 
Rushed through a stream of chill>' draft. 
And into this the man was brought, 
Whicli soon his form with vigor fraught. 

XXV. 

Wild and vast was the joy tliat burn'd — - 

In Roger Lea when he discerned — 

His man to consciousness return'd. 

As some 3'oung lamb he skipt and sprung, 

His arms around his man he flung, 

And him more lovinglj^ he press'd, 

Than ever he a maid caress'd. 

Craved pardon for the strife he waged, 

And Jonuson's wounded pride assuaged. 

And for his sake he welcome gave 

His friend Hunyadi to the cave. 

And thus imto the bai'd he said — 

As smiles his wrinkled face o'er spread. 

"When on .that awful reef of stone 

An utter wreck our ship was thrown 

And the floods higli o'er it were cast, 

Hurl'd up by the terrible blast, 

And on the jaws of the reef were churned 

Lito foam, as there their rage was spurned. 



322 THE HEIR OF LYOLTNN. 

You dragged me from the roaring brine, 

Safe brought me up the steep incline 

And sav'd this wretched life of mine, 

As did 30U four of that sad nine. 

And frankly I must now confess, 

While we were on that awful ness, 

You alwa^'s wore so dumb a mien, 

When ever 3'ou by me were seen, 

My treatment to you was all exempt. 

Except with scorn and deep contempt, 

I only dealt 30U ridicule 

'Cause I deem'd 3'ou the greatest fool 

That ever dunce hat wore in school, 

Whose back e'er felt the teacher's rule. 

But had I for one moment thought 

That you with any brains were fraught, 

Far different I had treated ^'ou. 

And yielded 3'ou all reverence due, 

Had it e'er entered in my mind 

That you were aught but clums}^ hind, 

Could well in strife the broad-sword wield, 

Make it your weapon and your shield, 

I'd strove, nor had I strov^ in vain 

A trusty friend in you to gain. 

For these I've lost through my long life, 

On sea and land b}^ toil and strife. 

And more around me now I need — 

To Avith me peril daring deed, 

And if to this you are agreed 

A boundless hoard shall be ^our meed. 

In 3'ou I trow a friend I'll find, 

And one just suited to my mind. 

Life is but a beautious night. 

In which, as some stars set from sight, 

Others rise and glitter just as bright. 



THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 323 

Yes, round us shed an equal light. 
Since my friend Omar's soul has trod 
The solemn precincts of his God, 
And while I tread this mortal shore 
His friendship I shall have no more, 
The place he fill'd for years gone past. 
You kaep long as your life shall last. 
Join your lot with mine, and you'll find 
I'm congenial to your mind ; 
Though hoar I am, I'm full of mirth 
As any man that walks the earth. 
For when the prime of life is o'er 
The frame all feeble, bent and hoar, 
Age may be sunny and serene. 
Chirping as when its life was green, 
A merry heart still bright and warm, 
May nestle in a feeble form. 
Like some glad bird that builds its nest 
'Midst bowers all in ruin drest. 
Your task an easy one will be — 
Onl}' to roam the world with me. 
Say quick, do you my offer choose, 
Or with disdain do you refuse ? 
Speak forth, nor look with such grim scowl 
All solemn as a hungry owl, 
And startled as some lazy fowl, 
That sees the hawk hard by it prowl." 



XXVI. 



Hunyadi with a smile replied. 
" To roam the nations far and wide 
A constant partner by your side. 
And share your fate what e'er betide, 
Such task by me is not denied, 
Midst toils on land or ocean's foam, 



324 THE IIETR OF LYOLYNN. 

You'll find Hun^adi all at home. 

With you right gladly I will wend, 

And be j^our partner and your friend, 

And one on whom you can depend, 

Ready a helping hand to lend — 

In all task fate to us may send, 

And you in every broil defend. 

Foi only have I pleasures fovmd 

In travelling through the nations round. 

And oft with jo}^ I've trod this cave, 

Nor ever feared its scenes to brave. 

No evil I have wrought 3'our men, 

Nor stolen aught from out your den, 

Though never in it until now 

I've looked upon your sage-like brow. 

But if I had you may depend, 

I'd strove to make you my firm friend, 

For well ^^ou love the stalwart arm. 

And mine had won you like a charm, 

But it shall never deal 3'ou harm, 

Nor cause to you the least alarm," 

As thus he spake a happ}' smile, 

Gathered o'er Roger's-face the M'hde, 

The brightest one for long j^ears j^ast, 

That had his wrinkled face o'er cast. 

XXVII. 

But swift as ever lightning sped 
The smile from Roger's visage fled, 
For thoughts of treasure and of gain, 
Darted as lightning through his brain. 
Thought he, if here we tarry more, 
We may loose all Zurn's golden store, 
And 'twas the thought of loosing it 
Which made the smile his visage flit. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 325 

" Come, come," lie said, "we must tu night 

Be oft' in search of treasure bright, 

Zurn's men must yield us all the hoard 

That's in their leak}- vessel stored. 

If they refuse us this, the breeze 

No more shall waft their ship o'er seas, 

For all on it shall soon be mine, 

That doth like gold or treasure shine, 

And then their ship I sink in brine, 

Or burn it to its water's line. 

So come, let's forth from out this cave. 

And treasures win, and perils brave." 

XXVIII. 

He ceased, and from the rocky den — 
In haste sped forth those fearless men, 
Well armed with weapons good they strode 
From out that rocky, drear abode; 
Ana long before two hours had past 
They'd trod o'er glens and mountains vast. 
And soon they reached the ambuscade — 
That Johnson by the sea had laid, 
And just as morning's first faint ray 
Gave tokens of the coming day — 
They saw the boats with that ship's crew, 
Come rowing o'er the waters blue, 
They saw them reach the lonel}'^ strand, 
And draw up high their boats on land, 
And onward up a rocky path. 
In a wild and dangei'ous strath 
They move in silence and in wrath. 
With stalwart tread and hearty breath, 
To swift avenge their leader's death. 
But all their wrath and hate was vain, 
Not one of them return 'd acjain : 



32G TIIH HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Within a deep and lonely jmss 
They died in one grim, gory mass, 
No, no, not one of them return'd 
To see their vessel robbed and burn'd. 

XXIX. 

Far, far along the pass they wound, 
Where scarcely they a foot-way found, 
For roaring torrent strong and deep, 
Did through that narrow passage sweep, 
And on each side rose flinty wall — 
Of dark gray rock abrupt and tall, 
Which at its base small foot-way show'd. 
That was not with the flood o'er flow'd, 
Only a scanty foot-way gave. 
All else did roaring torrent lave, 
These walls so o er the torrent lean'd, 
And all so well that foot-way screen'd. 
No mortal on their head could scan — 
That at their base there moved a man. 
There loosen 'd rocks in might}^ mass 
Hung tottering o'er the narrow pass, 
As if a breath of storm might throw 
Them headlong to the gulf below. 
And here and there as on they wound. 
Not any path by them was found. 
Save scattered rocks that midst the flood 
Just o'er the torrent's level stood, 
By which the parted waters flowed 
As if to tear them from its road ; 
And on them threw its foamy spray, 
As wrathful they should bar its way. 
Loud, loud the}^ heard the water roar, 
'Till they had passed a mile or more, 
And here a wider pass they gained, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 327 

Where less the roar of water reigned, 
Where less the huge rocks barr'd its way, 
Where less it chafed its floods to spra}^, 
Where less its eddies fell and rose 
And did its foamy wreathes disclose. 
Though still hy rocks it sti'ain'd and toil'd. 
And in vast eddies spumed and boilYl. 
Here less abrupt and steep and tall, 
Rose o'er that flood the rocky wall, 
Here less it lean'd o'er floods below, 
And plainly did the path-way show, 
To those Avho on its head would trace 
The scanty foot- way at its base, 
And o'er its head a network grim 
Of briers and cf thorns grew frini, 
Here stealthily they looked around, 
To see if any foe be found. 
No fear that such dense thorns would know 
The presence of an ambushed foe, 
Amidst its growth the timid hare, 
Might all in safet}^ make its lair, 
For neither man nor hound could pass — 
Through such a dense and thornj' mass, 
At least ao fancied all these men, 
While there the}' paused to view tlie glen; 
Little they deem'd that Roger's crew 
Had often pass'd that thicket through, 
And that amidst it even then 
There lurked a dozen of his men, 
Who saw them halt, and every word 
And S3dlable they spake o'er heard. 
This scene a moment's space they view'd, 
Then up the pass their way pursued. 
Five hundred yards or more they sped 
And save on rocks their footsteps treads 



J528 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

No other sound amongst them stirr'd, 

For they spake not a single word. 

And here they reached a deep defile 

That did in awful grandeur smile, 

Tall on each side the mountains stood, 

All densely covered o'er with wood. 

And o'er these vines and creepers grew, 

Decked with flowers of every hue. 

Down its uneven, rocky bed 

The roaring torrent onward sped, 

Leapt o'er many a loft}' fall 

In sheets of water broad and tall. 

Whose flood the canyon all pervades ; 

Form'd into beautiful cascades, 

As ever down a valley ran, 

As ever met the e^'c of man. 

All up the canyon gleamYl the tracts 

Of never ending cataracts. 

Which break upon the rocks below — 

In floods of foam as white as snow. 

Which gleam 'd beneath the beams of day 

With every hue 'neath splendor's swa}'. 

An endless robe of beauty wore 

As from fall to fall they thundered o'er, 

And here across that torrent wide 

Another canyon they espied, 

On each side a towering line 

Of hills o'er grown with fir and pine. 

Of ash and gum and poplar tall 

Made never ceasing shadow fall 

Upon a stream that deep below 

Did through that narrow canyon flow, 

A rapid stream that found its source 

From roaring linns, and down its course 

Swept o'er rocks in headlong force, 



THE nEIR OF LTOLYNN. 329 

With roarings deep and wild and hoarse. 

But litile time had tlic-y to gaze 

Upon the water's Avinding wa3'S, 

Or see it o'er tlie liuge rocks toil 

In everlasting fierce turmoil, 

Or view the hills that round them stood 

All over grown with stately wood, 

Though ne'er a landscape so sublime 

They'd seen before in an}^ clime : 

For sudden as an earth-quake's shock. 

From bush and wood and naked rock 

The blare of musketry loud roar'd 

And storms of bullets 'mongst them pour'd, 

DoAvn went before that fatal roar 

A score of men to rise no more : 

Without a shriek or groan or yell, 

Upon the earth they dying fell. 

Behind the rocks that thronged the strath. 

Lay thick along its winding path, 

Down instantly their comrades kneel 'd 

And had just there their forms concealed 

In safety 'neath their granite shield, 

As fierce another volley peal'd. 

And o'er their heads the missiles flew, 

Their deadly force on gi'anite threw. 

From this at times with crumbs they chipp'd 

The^' o'er the torrent's surface skipp'd 

And gave a little line of spray 

To show which course they'd sped their 

way. 
Another storm of bullets sped, 
But not a drop of gore the}' shed. 
Another, and another flew, 
But not a drop of gore they drew. 
For close behind their rocky shield 



330 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Those seamen kept themselves conceard. 
And there remain'd ''cill shades of night . 
Began to shroud the mountains' height. 
With arms prepared foF deadly fraj', 
Moody and still as beasts at hay, 
Round which the savage bloodhounds bra}-, 
Zurn's terrible avengers lay. 

XXX. 

'Twill never do for us at all 
To let the shades of evening fall, 
Hide yon seamen from our sight, 
For they will from us take their flight. 
And if we do not slay them all, 
Roger Lea will work our fall, 
Sc we must down upon them go, 
And bravely meet them foe to foe, 
Right sternl}' give them blow for blow, 
Fight them in every style we know, 
'Till we shall bring their overthrow, 
'Till all are still and stiff and low. 
So let's rush on them sword in hand ! 
Thus spake the leader of Lea's band. 
And from him swift thi-ee rockets flew, 
And high in air the}' burst, and threw 
Their flames where all his men could view, 
A signal Avhich full well they knew. 
Was straight to charge upon tlie foe, 
Nor to them aught of mercy show, 
Then noiseless as the fall of snow, 
When not a breath of breezes blow, 
Noiseless as moves the aspen spra}', 
When not a breath of zephyrs pla}^, 
Or noiseless as the rushes stray 
Down streams that silent keep their wa}', 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 331 

Koiseless as moves the tiger, when 
He iiears his prey amidst the fen, 
So on their hands and knees Lea's men — 
Moved down in utter silence then. 
Nor knees, nor foot, nor hand at all — 
Upon the earth was heard to fall, 
Nor any sound how ever small, 
As did they towards their foemen crawl. 
Hid midst the foliage dense and tall. 
And shadows of night's coming pall. 
And when upon their feet they rose, 
'Twas face to face amongst their foes, 
Did in terrific combat close — 
'Midst shot and thrust and storms of blows, 
With pistol, gun and sword and knife. 
They urged the awful waste of life. 
With vengeance every heart was rife. 
So terribly the}' waged the strife: 
There mongst them blared nor horn nor fife, 
Nor shout nor yell was mongst them heard, 
Nor shriek nor groan, nor any word, 
'Mongst those desperate foemen stirr'd, 
Save blare of guns and heavy l^lows. 
From the strife no other sounds ai'ose. 
At least there rose not any sound 
As in the human voice is found, 
Though face to face in mortal strife 
They fought 'till either lost their life. 
Or fell on earth with wounds o'er come, 
Yet every voice the while was dumb. 
No faintest tone from human tongue. 
Amidst that din of carnage rung. 
Such mode of fighting Zurn and Lea 
Had taught tlieir men on land and sea 
Never were they to cheer nor shout, 



332 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

In either victory or rout, 

It help'd to waste the strength they taught, 

And none of good towards conquest 

wrought. 
A silent foe on battle field — 
Who spake not when the tumult peal'd, 
Though with his mortal wounds he reel'dj 
An awful majesty revealVl, 
Struck deeper sense of awe and fear, 
In every fighting foeman there. 
Than if he pour'd within his ear, 
A deafening shout, or stunning cheer. 
For the wounded to groan or shriek, 
Did real unmanliness bespeak. 
To show by any sign their throes. 
Gave only pleasure to their foes. 
And to these rules their men held fast, 
All rigidly unto the last, 

XXXI. 

The shades of night had gathered in, 
And hushed was all the battle's din, 
No more beside the roaring flood 
Mortals all grim with wounds and blood. 
Were seen to midst it waters fall. 
Pierced through with either brand or ball, 
No more, no more was heard the sound 
Of dead men falling on the ground. 
As down they fell wich sudden shock, 
And headlong went on solid rock ; 
For all that came from out Zurn's hive. 
Which numbered just four score and five. 
Were stretched in grim and deep repose. 
As were the foes that 'gainst them rose 
Within that wild and awful glen ; 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

For only one of Roger's men 

Had strength enough to crawl away, 

When ceased that grim and fearful fray, 

And only a short space he went. 

Before his vital force was spent, 

And on the earth, grim, red with gore, 

He silent sank to rise no more, 

A feast for wolves and hirds of prej-. 

As cold and still as stone he la^'. 

Soon Autumn came with flood and rain, 

And swellVl that canyon's stream amain, 

Then were the bones of all the dead, 

That were within that can3'on spread. 

Swept up before the torrent vast, 

And to the depths of ocean cast, 

Nor left one faintest trace behind, 

To tell their fate to human kind. 

XXXIT. 

While in the pass this fray was fought, 
Another on the sea was wrought. 
For when the seamen took their path, 
Up that wild and dangerous strath. 
And had all pass'd from Tloger's view, 
He and his men from ambush drew ; 
The boats within the sea the}' placed. 
Well mann'd was each, as forth in haste 
They row'd across the watery waste, 
And towards the distant vessel faced. 
The}' reached the ship, and towardsits deck 
They climbed as' men that little reck 
The presence of their mortal foe, 
That bravely meet them blow to blow • 
Many a foe those seamen slew, 
Ere halfway up their ship they drew. 



334 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Hurl'd them to sea a gor}-- wreck, 
Just as they climbed beside tlieii- deck 
But of those seamen only ten 
That vessel held, and these were men 
That with their foes waged fearful fra}', 
And long kept Roger's men at bay. 
But o'er powered with numbers vast 
They sank in gore and breathed their last. 
From stem to stern, from deck to floor, 
"Was searched that spacious vessel o'er. 
And tons of gold and silver bright. 
Soon gladdened greedj^ Roger's sight, 
And all this pile of shining hoard. 
Within the boats was swiftly stored 
But some small gems of mighty cost, 
That glow'd like sun-illumined frost, 
Least they should 'mongst the men be lost — 
Lea in his spacious pockets tost. 
When they had searched that vessel 

through, 
And ta'en all treasure they could view, 
Upon the deck old Roger stood — 
JEyeing the piles of plunder good, 
Yet all unsatisfied he seem'd. 
For still within that ship he deem'd — 
Some little cupboard might be found — 
If careful they would search it round, 
Wherein might priceless gems abound, 
As with 3'et ever queen was crown'd. 
And unto all, these thoughts he told, 
And straight to search that vessel's hold — 
Small inch by inch, all through and through. 
Beneath the deck again they drcAV. 
But scarce beneath the deck they came — 
Than round them burst a ruddy flame, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 335 

And columns tall of curling smoke 

Through all the spacious hatchways broke, 

Soon from the hold the bright flames tore, 

With a harsh, fierce, bickering roar: 

And on like angr^- fiends they sped, 

'Till masts and deck with flames were red, 

And swift to sails and spars o'er head 

Flames like a whelming deluge spread. 

Meanwhile within the boats around — 

Lea and his men had safety found. 

And as unto the shore they row'd, 

Lingering looks they oft bestow 'd 

Upon that ship, that brighter grew 

With every breath of breeze that blew, 

'Till stem to stern did only show 

But one broad sheet of ruddy glow; 

Till sail and spar and lofty mast 

A uniA'ersal flame o'er cast, 

Till these with tones of thunder fell 

Below amidst the flaming hell. 

And from out their fiery lair 

Sent up a million sparks in air. 

The sun went down, and niglit apace, 

Its mantle threw o'er ocean's face, 

And far and wide o'er ocean's flow 

That ruin pour'd its ruddy glow. 

To distant shore as well as wave, 

A fearful light that ruin gave, 

Beneath its glow the rippling flood 

Look'd like a moving sea of blood. 

And over land and sk}' was spread 

A universal hue of red. 

Far down that burning deck below 

Fire rushed on with rapid flow. 

And soon the flames wich awful sheen — 



336 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Swept round the fearful magazine ; 

Where piled high bomb and shell were seen, 

Guns and man}- a dread machine, 

Grim weapons used in war's routine, 

Rifles and gleaming broad-swords keen. 

Then came a burst of tliundcr sound, 

That shook earth, air and floods around, 

From sky to sea, from sea to sk}'^, 

Did grim, infernal echoes fly, 

And mountain unto mountain call'd 

As though with some dread fright appall'd. 

Or rent with overwhelming throes, 

And from the sea to sky arose 

An all terrific sheet of flame, 

"Which burst in air, and downward came 

In countless sparks of ruddy glow, 

That did all shades of color show, 

Which scattered wide o'er ocean's flow, 

And hissing lit on floods below. 

And while that sovuid still shook the air, 

Right clean from off its watery lair, 

That burning wreck one instant rose. 

Did all its shattered frame disclose, 

Then back wich one terrific crash, 

'Tvvas on the waters heard to dash, 

Then came a gurgling, bubbling sound 

As doth a sinking craft surround, 

And swift as ever sparrow flew — 

That flaming ruin pass'd from view. 

As 'neath the closing flood it went 

Far round a hissing spray it sent. 

And long after that ruin red, 

Had 'neath the gurgling waters sped, 

Bubbles on ocean's face arose. 

And did the place it sank disclose. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Thus pass VI with one terrific roar — 
From human sight for ever more, 
The ship that o'er the ocean bore 
The most ruthless crew that yet wore 
The likeness and the shape of man, 
Since ever this wide world began. 
The most base in heart, soul and mind. 
That e'er claim'd kin to human kind, 
As ever wore the human frame, 
Or ever wreckers jet became. 
Within their day o'er nations broad. 
Were they detested and abhorred. 
And shunn'd by all save those alone 
Who ship-wreck'd on some reef were 

thrown, 
And these on reefs they often left, 
If of all earthly goods bereft. 
Left them alone to starve and die, 
If they their rescue could not buy. 

XXXIII. 

Soon in the Bower of Bliss was stored 
By Roger's hand the shining hoard. 
All save the mites he gave as meed — 
To those who with him dared the deed 
The lion's share of that vast hoard 
He in his cavern's coffers stored, 
Of discontent no slightest word 
Amongst his followers was heard. 
Gladly each man took his scanty share. 
And did from out the cave repair. 
As if he hi.d most ampl}' fared 
And been well paid for all he dared. 
Such sway o'er them old Roger held, 
He might have every one compell'd 



338 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

To go without the slightest share, 
Himself kept all the shining gear, 
And none amongst them would have dared 
To e'en hint he had unjustl}^ fared. 

XXXIV. 

On lightning wings a month had past — 
Since in old Roger's coffers vast — 
Had the spoils of Zurn's ship been cast : 
And Autumn's frost and blighting blast, 
Had o'er those mountain lands been shed, 
And turn'd the forest leaves to red, 
Made all the rolling landscape wear 
A solemn aspect, sad and sear. 
For nowhere o'er the earth was seen 
Save 'mongst moss and grass a shade of 

green, 
Or where some cedar or some pine 
Might o'er tall, craggy rock incline. 
And all this while had Roger Lea 
Prepared to roam o'er land and sea, 
A journey vast o'er every clime 
The hoary chief proposed this time, 
And take Hunyadi by his side. 
And him to fame and fortune guide. 
O'er the map whole hours he leau'd. 
While with one hand his eyes he screen'd — 
From lamps that on his table glow'd, 
And pointing with the other show'd 
Unto the bard some little spots 
Which swift his pen marked round with 

dots. 
Whereon he said huge cities rose. 
Wherein did boundless wealth repose, 
Where they could wend and rob and cheat, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 339 

And do it all adroit and neat, 

And if detected they could beat 

A hasty and secure retreat. 

Dodge all the officers of law, 

Though keenest any city saw. 

The day arrived, for them to start, 

And they were ready to depart. 

In rocky vaults deep under ground, 

Which by small secret paths were found. 

And these by iron doors secured 

Old Lea had hid his precious hoard. 

The doors he locked and o'er them threw 

A mass of rock to hide their view, 

And unto where that hoard he drew — 

None save he and Hunyadi knew. 

And there thought Roger it will stay 

Secure until the Judgment-da}'^, 

If l)ack: I never more repair, 

For none will di-eam there's treasure there. 

Then from the rocky cave the}' sped, 

Did through the mountain footway tread, 

Which to a far off city lead. 

From whence a bark was soon to sail 

Unto a clime they wished to hail. 

'Twas early morn, the cloudless sun 

Had just beam'd o'er the mountains dun. 

And lit that solitary world. 

Back from the glens the mists were curled. 

Had to the mountain peaks repaired. 

And high upon their brows were laired. 

Stretched far and wide their shining fold. 

Which sparkled all like ruddy gold, 

And to those lofty summits clung. 

To and fro upon the breezes swung,^ 

As earth had there broad ensigns hung, 



340 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And all lier i)ii(le on brcczos flung. 

And sweet its rays Uio sim-hetuns pour'd, 

On Hoods that down tlie mountains roar'd, 

An<l unto every foam-wreathed wave — 

A l)rilliant hue of glory gave. 

On redden'd leaves of gum and vino, 

Which crown'd each hill side's tall incline, 

Whicli to each rocky crevice clung, 

And o'er the vales their l)ranches hung, 

On leaves of scarlet, red and gray, 

All mingled Avith th6 green wood's spraj', 

For cedar, oak and gum and pine, 

To clothe those hills did all coml/me. 

The sun pour'd down his laughing ray 

And <lid in beaut}' all array. 

And there displayed a scene sublime 

As ever yet was known to time, 

As ever 3'et on Autumn's shrine. 

Was placed by nature's hand divine. 

Of color every hue and shade. 

Which God e'er yet for nature made, 

Where midst that glowing 8cene displa3"ed, 

In pcrCect liannou}' arrayed. 

All, all the varied hues and tints, 

lie o'er His glowing rain-bow prints, 

And every varied tint besides 

That in Ilis Ixxnidh-ss work aljides, 

All round upon that landscape gleam'd, 

As bright o'er it the sunshine beam'd, 

And forth its latent glory In-ought, 

All, all its charms to being wrought, 

And over all a l)eauty fraught — 

Beyond the soaring reach of thought. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 341 

XXXV. 

Upon this scene Hunyadi gazed 

As one bewildered and amazed, 

For never, never 'till that time — 

He'd seen a landscape so sublime , 

Never 'till then through all his life 

He'd gazed upon such beautj^ rife. 

And ne'er had dreamd that nature's frame 

Could half such magic beauty claim, 

And swift through aU his form and soul — 

He felt poetic ardor roll. 

He paused and o'er the landscape threw 

A lingering and joj'ous view ; 

Enraptured with the scene he gazed, 

Nor once from it his vision raised. 

Though all impatient Roger grew, 

With hast}"" step beside him drew. 

And urged him there no more to stay. 

No more their journey to dela}^, 

But haste with him upon their way, 

And reach the town ere close of day. 

But still Hunj^adi kept his place. 

And spell-bound gazed o'er nature's face. 

In spite of all old Roger's haste — 

He steadfast view'd the glowing waste, 

And the more impatient Roger grew. — 

Tlie more entranced he seem'd to view. 

At length his moody silence broke, 

And thus he unto Roger spoke. 

Oh, Lea, behold down j^onder hill 

How sweetly streams j'on sparkling rill ! 

Behold its foam, how grand it flows 

As now the sun upon it glows 1 

Ten thousand brighter hues are there 

Than in Zurn's choicest gems appear I 



342 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And lo, on yonder mountain's brow- 
How bright the clouds are basking now 
Beneath the glowing beams of morn, 
Was e'er till now such splendor born 1 
They with far brighter lustre glow 
Than all Z urn's golden urns can show. 
These are the sights that fill my soul 
With rapture all beyond control^ 
And I could gaze for days, yes, years, 
On sights like now all nature wears. 
One moment let 3'our vision rove — 
To where is seen yon maple grove, 
Through it the morning breezes blow, 
Its leaves in wild commotion throw, 
Oh, what a scene those seared leaves show. 
While now on them the sunbeams glow. 
Like some bright tossing sea they gleam, 
And all of gold and amber seem. 
And see yon giant oak and gum. 
Each bends as if with age o'er come, 
Lean forward with a rocky mass. 
That beetles o'er yon gloomy pass, 
On its grim, awful verge they wave, 
Stand like two old men o'er the grave, 
And seem the storm will shortly throw 
Them headlong to the gulf below. 
But what glorious robes they show, 
While now on them the sunbeams glow; 
Each like a waving peak of flame 
Rears o'er the dell its lofty frame 
And see afar yon stately pine, 
Now o'er its leaves the dew-drops shine. 
No brighter gems all earth can show 
Than what upon yon pine-tree glow. 
And none more vapory and thin, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 343 

Old Lea replied, and here broke in. 

Frail as the bubbles children blow, 

To which the soap gives feeble glow, 

Which burst ere on the earth below 

They light, and not a vestige show 

Upon the spot that they were thrown — 

To prove that they were ever blown ; 

And yonder pomp that nature shows, 

As brief a date as bubble knows. 

'Twill pass away with all its pride — 

As foam wreathes down yon torrent ride — • 

That rush into the gurge below — 

And pass away from sunshine's glow. 

Frail as the schemes of mortal brain, 

As fleeting, shadowy and vain, 

That come one moment on lifers shore, 

Then pass awa>' for ever more. 

Yon pageantr}^ is brief and vain, 

Soon winter comes with storm and rain, 

By sleet and hail and ic}^ blast 

Yon leavea shall o'er the earth be cast, 

Be strown by all the storms that blow, 

Or rot their parent stems beloAv. 

In one short month from this, I trow — i 

No mortal will remember how 

O'er yonder \ale and mountain's brow. 

They made sucli pageantrj^ as now. 

So let's journey on our wa}', 

And no more trifle and dela3'. 

XXXVI. 

Scarce had these words from Roger past 
Than rang a scream all wild and 'ghast 
From out the darksome dell below, 
And with it came a curse and blow. 



344 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

The voice from whom that scream had flown, 
Full well to Roger's ear was known, 
And who had cursed down in the dell, 
"Was known to Roger full as well. 
There, now, said he, as savage grin 
Played o'er his face from hroAv to chin, 
Scarce have I left my mountain cave. 
Than Mosman that base hearted knave, 
Has from it carried Ellenore ; 
But he for this I'll punish sore, 
Yes, yes, I'll teach the stubborn fool, 
That in my land I yet hold rule. 
I told him plain, and meant it too, 
That Johnson only her should woo. 
And that her grief o'er Omar's fall 
Had quite upset her senses all ; 
But when her grief had past awa}', 
No longer o'er her held such swa}-, 
That straight with she should Johnson wed, 
And bade him never dare to tread 
Across the threshold of my door, 
If there he came for Ellenore. 
My words he promised to obey, 
And from her presence keep away, 
But unto this he's proved untrue, 
And for it he shall deeply rue. 
Thus spake in haste that hoary man, 
And down a craggy path he ran — 
Which led unto the dell below, 
From whence had come that scream of woe, 
Down the precipitous rock he sprung. 
As if with youthful vigor strung. 
And soon he trod beside the verge 
Of roaring, deep and darksome gurge. 
The black abyss all grim and lone, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. .j4i 

In which had Omar's corpse been thrown, 
Down which it past from human sight — 
Into unfathomable night. 
And here hard by that whirlpool's roar^ 
Sat Johson holding Ellenore; 
Grim was her grief o'er Omar's fall, 
His death upset her senses all. 
Wildl3' she caird on Omar's name, 
And fiercely strove to rend her frame 
Fi'om Johnson's vice-lilve hold, an j there 
Within those waters dark and drear 
Plunge in and end lier grief and care, 
Her agony and deep despair. 
And close beside them near that flood, 
"With face and nose all smeared with blood. 
Upon the rocks as still as clay 
Insensible George Mosman lay. 
Where he'd by Johnson's hand been thrown, 
When on Lea's ear his curse was blown. 
And this is how it chanced that here 
Beside that whirlpool dark and drear, 
These Avretched mortals did repair. 

XXXVII. 

After Lea had from his Bower sped, 

With Ellenore George Mosman fled, 

For so her charms on him had wrought. 

His soul with love was over fraught, 

And her he sought to woo and wed, 

For this he from the Bower fled. 

But of their flight soon Jolinson learn il, 

And like fierce flame his anger burn'd, 

Swift on his rival's path he flew, 

And did him to this gurge pursue, 

Here on the twain his hands he laid, 



34 C ■ THE HEIii OF LYOLYNN. 

Ellenore back to the cave he bade ; 
And here pass'd parley long and stern, 
But Ellenore would not return. 
" No, go not back," George Mosman said, 
" Nor step with this grim out-law tread, 
For he's the man that now you view, 
Who in yon gurge poor Omar threw, 
Instead of giving him a grave 
Such as might well beseem the brave, 
They cast him like a dog or knave, 
In yonder whirlpool's gloomy wave." 
'* Is this all true?" the woman cried, 
As keenly both those men she eyed, 
"No word of it by me's denied," 
Bold Johnson careless!}' replied. 
At this the eyes of Ellenore 
An all uncai'thly brightness wore. 
And to her cheeks, in crimson flood. 
One instant rushed the bounding blood, 
Then ebbing back, with sudden flow, 
Left all her visage white as snow, 
The l)rightness of her ej'c-balls fled, 
And left them ray less as the dead. 
One long, heart rending shriek she gave 
And rushed to meet the whirlpool's wave 
But ere she touched those watei's vast. 
Bold Johnson's arms wore round her cast 
While from its awful brim he bore 
The fair and frantic Ellenore, 
George Mosman with a bludgeon sped 
A heav}' blow on Johnson's head. 
Which roilVl his rage, and on Uis foe 
lie dealt one overwhelming blow, 
Which made him lie so still and grim, 
When Rooer Lea discovered him. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLVNN. ^4? 

From effects of that blow and fall 
Right soon revived his senses all, 
Yet, not from oft" the earth he rose, 
But lay as if in deep repose, 
Planning fell vengeance on his foe, 
And how to deal a secret blow. 

xxxvin. 

Sudden as from the fowler's snare 
The wild bird starts to distant air, 
And sends forth one small note of glee, 
To tell all space that it is free, 
So with a scream that woman sprung 
From those strong arms around her flung, 
And far out on the whirlpool vast 
With lightning speed her form she cast, 
But swift as ever wild bird fled, 
He springing to her rescue sped. 
Scarce had she touched tiie boiling tide, 
Than seen was Johnson at her side, 
Around that whirlpool's awful brim. 
With fearless heart and pliant limb. 
Three times with her did Johnson swim 
And kept her from the eddies grim, 
And every time he near'd its rim 

She strove to rend herself from him, 

And every time he strove to bear 

Her from the eddies' swift career. 

She every time his effort foil'd. 

And bore him back where waters toil'd 

Around the rocks with ceaseless flow, 
»And plunged to unknown depths below, 

Yet still with strength no toil destroy 'd 

Her head above the ilood he buoy'd. 



348 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

While with screams that deafened and 

appall 'd 
On Omar, Omar wild she call'd. 
Though her unutterable woe 
Was wild us was that whirlpool's flow, 
And haggard was her face with caie, 
And furrowed o'er with grim despair, 
Yet still her comely features wore 
Fixed Beauty which no sorrow sore. 
Nor grief could wholly cover o'er; 
Still o'er those features sad and wild, 
Though then they neither frowu'd nor 

smiled, 
Bright beauty's grandest charms and best, 
Did over all her visage rest ; 
With long, thick tresses flowing free 
As mist above a stormy sea. 
With, face and neck and hand and arms, 
Displaying all of Beauty's charms. 
That woman looked though she might be — 
A Yenus rising from the sea. 

XXXIX. 

Amidst that whirlpool's awful roar. 
Right nigh unto its rocky shore, 
A foot-hold Johnson gain'd at length. 
And from the waters with a strength 
That seem'd beyond those of this world, 
On shore the woman's form he hui'l'd. 
And as himself he strove to save 
From that grim torrent's roaring wave ; 
Swifter than darts the startled mew, 
George Mosman at his rival flew, 
A pistol forth he drew apace, 
And aiming, shot through Johnson's face, 



THE HEIE OF LYOLYNN. 349 

Through cheeks that bullet passage found 
Though made not any fatal wound, 
But as through them the missile tore, 
Some teeth from oft" their base it bore, 
And soon upon the whirlpool's flood, 
Was seen to stream a streak of blood. 
The while amidst the waters flow, 
He staggered from the bullet's blow, 
Another pistol Mosman caught, 
But while it to an aim he brought. 
Lea on him swift as magic flew, 
And from his hand the weapon drew ; 
As from his hand the pistol came. 
That instant burst a flash of flame, 
And with that flash a sudden roar. 
And through Lea's thigh its bullet tore. 
But ere had Mosman time to think, 
Lea shoved him o'er the whirlpool's brink 
Pain'd by his wound that gushed forth gore, 
Down Roger sank by Ellenorel 
Wild was the scream that Mosman gave, 
When on that Avhirlpool's darksome wave. 
And just amidst its fiercest tide. 
He found himself by Johnson's side, 
Who instant grappled with hie; foe, 
And forced his head the flood below. 
From whence a line of bubbles rose, 
But never more did him disclose. 
While Mosman 'midst the water's flow 
Swept down to the abyss below, 
One loud, wild shriek gave Ellenore 
And midst the whirlpool plunged oncemore. 
Lea caught her ere she touch'd the wave. 
He caught her but he could not save, 
Like quick-silver to his dismay 



350 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

She from his fingers slips away ; 
As glides the eel from angler's hand. 
She from him darted o'er the strand, 
And plunged within the flood below, 
To end her all consuming woe. 
In vain, in vain did Johnson strain, 
To lift her from the flood again ; 
His strength was spent, no more his force 
Could with her stem the whirljjool's course, 
No more upon those waters grim, 
He with that woman's form could swim, 
To save lier then his strength was vain, 
Though for this strove with all his main, 
They sank and rose, then sank again 
But rose, at last down went the twain, 
Nor rose again those waters o'er. 
Thus sank from sight for evermore, 
Beneath that whirlpool's gurgling roar, 
The true, the faithful Ellenore, 
Por whose unutterable grief, 
And woe, death only had relief. 
Whose sorrow over Omar's death, 
Ceased only with her mortal breath. 
And with her midst the water's flight, 
Johnson past ever more from sight, 
The boldest out-law that e'er trod — 
On rock, on mountain, deck, or sod, 
Whose heart though stern, yet oifat times. 
Its virtues triumphed o'er its crimes. 
They 'neath the flood had disappear'd, 
Ere had the gurge Hunyadi near'd. 
For he the while on heights o'er head. 
Still view'd the scene that morning spread, 
The all enchanting, dazzling glow. 
That gleam 'd o'er hills and vales below ; 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 351 

And he had come on Roger's call, 

Who then could neither stand nor cra-wl, 

Whose thigh-bone by that pistol's ball, 

Had been crushed, shattered, splintered all. 

And whose grim wound was dripping gore, 

Upon his back old Lea he bore, 

Then up a craggy path he strode, 

Precipitous and awful road. 

And soon he lodged his gory load 

Within the cavern's lone abode. 



352 TllK HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 



PART YII. 



O'er Castle Flame the shades of night, 

Had cast a mantle gi'and and In'ight, 

Foi* not a cloud was seen to roll 

O'er stars that decked the azure pole, 

The full sphered moon its lustre shed, 

Its silver light o'er nature spread ; 

Though winter robed the earth with snow. 

No breath of breeze was heard to blow, 

And calm and sweet pour'd down the light. 

On icy vale and mountain height, 

And on the distant sea below, 

Where not a ripple seem'd to flow, 

But bright did stars and heavens show, 

Serene the moon pour'd down its glow, 

Blue looked the sea, blue looked the rky, 

Stars gleam 'd below, stars gleam xl on high. 

And twinkled through the frosty night, 

In all their majesty of light. 

And utter stillness reign 'd around, 

A silence solemn and profound, 

For all the beasts slept on their lair 

As silent as the azure air, 

Through which no breezes breathed a breath 

But gave to it the calm of death, 

Not e'en was heard a watch dog's howl, 

Nor yet the hooting of an owl, 

No heathcock's crow the midnight stirr'd. 

Nor bleating from the fold was heard, 



THE IIEIII OF LYOLVNN. 353 

All was still as iLe biteing frost 

Whose wand was over all tilings tost. 

Still as the ice-bergs on the beach, 

Which glowVl far as the eye could reach. 

Reigned such dead silence over all, 

One might have heard a feather fall. 

From starry skies to earth below 

Was silent as the cedars grow. 

Silent as did the shadows fall. 

By moonshine cast from poplars tall 

Which spread on earth their changing pall 

And darkened o'er the castle wall. 

And all look'd solemn and serene, 

As e'er in winter night was seen. 

Yet, this night so calm and sweet, 

Came after day of storm and sleet, 

For all that day had roar'd the blast. 

And sleet and snow o'er earth had cast, 

And tree and shrub and weed all o'er. 

Were clothed with robes of sparkling frore. 

Fierce had the blasts o'er ocean storm'd. 

Its floods to giant billows form'd, 

On rocky shores waged fearful fray, 

And chaf'd themselves to foamy spray, 

Nor had the sun through all that day, 

Cast on the earth one faintest ray, 

Through all that day behind the frowr 

Of clouds was he, 'till he went down. 

And only after set the sun, 

The fury of that storm was done ; 

And only when the night began 

Clouds ceased Heaven's broad arch to span 

From zenith to horizon's rim, 

Soon pass'd away the cloudfolds grim, 

'Till over all the heavens wide, 



354 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Was not the slightest cloud espied, 
But show'd a starry-, azure sky, 
With moon full sphered and mounted high 
Thus i\ must be with ever}' man, 
Whose life through all its mortal span 
One constant stream of sorrow ran, 
Yea, closed in grief as it began, 
Whose soul was virtuous and good. 
And such before its Maker stood. 
When he casts off his vital breath. 
And wanders through the night of death. 
Serene all things must round him glow, 
Joy must ever take the place of woe, 
On him no clouds their shadows throw. 
Nor any bitter tempests blow. 
A solemn light must fill his soul. 
And peace and God pervade the whole. 



In Castle Flame a glimmering light, 
From one high window shone that night, 
On that broad window placed on high 
Long, long I fix'd my eager eye. 
For there methought I could espy, 
Mongst figures that there flitted b}', 
Oft to and fro across it drew, 
And shadows down beside me threw. 
Methought in these I oft could view, 
Semblance to mortals that I knew. 
Something seem'd passing in that room 
Which made each wear an air of gloom. 
Made the castle look like some vast tomb, 
Or some dread place of woe and doom. 
As by that casement there aloft, 
With Ulrick I had journied oft. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 355 

And well the winding staircase knew 

That to that high apartment drew ; 

I, journied from that wold of snow, 

Did in the lofty castle go, 

Swift up the flight of stairs I flew, 

And into Ulrick's room I drew. 

Upon his couch the sculptor laj'^, 

With visage white as billows' spray, 

When on a cloudy day it grows, 

And the toss'd wave from whence it rose, 

In centre of the ocean flows, 

And yet no taint from headland knows. 

And as his visage hoary hair'd, 

Was on its crimson pillow lair'd, 

It seem'd like wreath of snowy flood. 

On coral reef the hue of blood. 

From his broad head of statel}^ air, 

Down hung at length his thick gray hair. 

And o'er his broad and ample breast 

Whereon his folded hands did rest, 

Wherein life's tide was ebbing low. 

Hung down his beard as white as snow. 

Ere from the cloud where it is wrought, 

In contact with the earth 'tis brought, 

With all its cloud-born whiteness fraught, 

Nor yet a taint from earth has caught. 

And that old man's attendants there, 

Hunjadi and lanthe were. 

So gently in that room I drew, 

None of those three my presence knew, 

Until I passed before their view. 

And hat upon the table threw. 

Save the clock that clicked on the wall. 

And whose dread sounds ne'er ceased to fall, 

And save the breathing of their breath, 



356 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

That room the while was still as death, 
And plain I saw the glistening tear 
Like crystals flow from fountains clear, 
And thick o'er ever}- eye appear, 
Exept that old man's 13'ing there. 

HI- 

That old man's hand I took in mine, 

'Twas growing cold as freezing brine, 

But in his eyes did lustre shine, 

An azure brightness all divine. 

An all celestial, holy light, 

Unearthly, spiritually bright. 

And o'er his manly face the while. 

There beam'd an all angelic smile. 

Which over all his visage spread 

A radiant light, and halo shed. 

There beam'd for man good will and love, 

And faith and trust in God above. 

There showed a spirit all resigned 

To what e'er will'd the Almighty mind. 

And as I view'd those features all, 

And that huge frame so broad and tall. 

Methought, if ever yet above, 

Amongst God's choicest heirs of love, 

An}'^ the form of mortal bore. 

Then they that old man's image wore. 

Just an hundred }' ears and one that night, 

Since he was born had ta'en their flight, 

And through this time, of grief and care, 

Fate unto him had dealt full share. 

But as the seaman on the deck. 

Which storms have vainly strove to wreck, 

Whose bark from floods and stormy air, 

Is moor'd beside the friendly pier. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 357 

But looking back o'er ocean's face, 
He yet the awful rocks can trace 
That just o'er ocean's surface stand, 
Lie scattered thick on every hand , 
Dread rocks, best pilots seldom shun, 
Round which are roaring eddies spun. 
And sees amidst these rock-shoals dun, 
Huge ice-bergs glowing in the sun. 
And also sees the headlands grim, 
That border all that ocean's rim. 
By which his bark he safely steer 'd, 
Though fierce the waves and storms 

career'd. 
Then heavenward lift his dauntless eye, 
With thanks and praise to Him on high. 
So from his mortal frame, his soul. 
Which ne'er was thrall'd'neath sin's control, 
However grand the tempter stood. 
And evil clothed in guise of good, 
Its vision all enraptured cast 
Adown the ocean of the past. 
Through all his jojs and hopes and fears. 
Through all its sorrows and its cares, 
Its storm and shine, its smiles and tears, 
Trough all its century of years. 
And with a cheerful, manly voice. 
Which made a list'ners soul rejoice 
To hear its rich, flowery flow. 
What e'er its subject, joy or woe. 
He thus to us began to speak. 
While with moist eyes and dewy cheek, 
We listened to the hoary man, 
Whose language in this current ran. 



358 THE HEIE OF LYOLYNN. 

IV. 

"My life is ebbing fast away, 

But little while have I to stay, 

As 3'onder clock clicks forth to chime 

A death dirge for the passing time, 

It also tolls a knell for me, 

Tolls for the death that soon must be. 

And ere to God my spirit wends — 

A word to you I'd speak my friends. 

Yes, soon my soul shall leave this shore. 

And you will hear my voice no more ; 

So what I say take to your soul, 

And let it all your lives control. 

Love God with all your soul and mind, 

And keep him ever there enshrined. 

Fear Him and only Him adore, 

Evil shun, and sin abhor. 

And as throughout this world ye wend, 

Be man and brother to the end, 

To other's woes your pity tend, 

But still keep God your foremost friend. 

I've lived a hundred years and more, 

And I'd live that century o'er. 

With cheerful heart and willing mind, 

Unto my Maker all resigned. 

I'd pass again through all its woe, 

If my God will'd me to do so. 

Though the demons woe and want. 

All dreadful eyed and grim and gaunt, 

Have never ceased my path to haunt. 

My trust in God they ne'er could daunt. 

That trust my feelings all control. 

And is eternal as my soul. 

I have looked fondly for this time, 

When I should hear His voice sublime 



THE HEIR 0? LYOLYNN. 350 

Which now rings plainly in mine ear, 
But is not meant for ye to hear. 
Yes, I hear mj^ Maker say, 
Come, come my Ulrick, come awa3^ 
He now to sunshine turns the gloom, 
Hi3 glo^y all pervades this room." 
Here closed his eyes, his voice grew weak. 
But thus unto himself did speak. 
Lo, oh, lo I what a glory bright, 
What a hol}^, heavenly sight 1 
A spirit all array 'd in white. 
Whose wings are plum'd for instant flight. 
Has just beside me come and smiled. 
Her features are all calm and mild. 
And it is she, my only love 
Whose grave for 3^ ears I've wept above. 
She whose voice full many a time. 
When 1 have bowed 'neath sorrow's rime, 
Have deep in sorrow's flood been hurl'd. 
By scornful treatment from the world. 
All the praise it gave, and all the spoil 
For long nights and 3'ears of patient toil, 
She cheer'd me into hope and jo}", 
Which all the worlds could not destroy. 
Yes, it is she that spirit bright, 
And gentle soul, who on this night 
A hundred j^ears and one ago, 
Brought me within this world of woe. 
Who caused my being on this earth. 
Whose pains of travail brought my birth, 
And to the household in the morn 
'Twas gladly told a babe was born. 
And fill'd ray father's heart with pride. 
She who he wept for when she died. 
Oh m}' earthly mother sw^eet and mild, 



3G0 THE HEIR OF LYOLVNX. 

Oh, take back, take again j'our child, 

Take me to your arms as on that niglit, 

When first I bless'd m}^ mother's sight, 

Yea, made her soul with joy grow bright, 

Fill'd all her being with delight. 

Oh, mother, mother, take me now, 

For I am weary, let me bow 

My head upon your gentle breast. 

Take me like when a babe to rest. 

Oh take me forth I care not where, 

With you my guide I cannot fear. 

But hark, sweet music now I hear. 

And God is breathing in mine ear, 

I see the heavens brighter glow, 

Like rain bows round their glory throw, 

I see the angels all arow, 

I hear their hymns eternal flow. 

Come mother mine through weal and n-oe, 

God calls us forth, and let us go, 

For I am weary. 

V. 

Here his head — 
Sank deeper in the crimson bed, 
A paler hue his visage spread, 
And hoary Ulrick's soul had fled ; 
Upon that awful pathway trod, 
Which brings us face to face with God, 
Without a struggle or a throe. 
It silent left this vale of woe, 
Then was dead silence in that room, 
A silence awful like the tomb. 
Even the clock upon the wall 
Had ceased its solemn clicking all, 
Had stopped, gave not a single chime 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 361 

To tell the knell of passing time ; 

At length half stifled sobs confcst 

That sorrow labored in each breast, 

Each eye was moist, and every cheek 

Did glist'ning, falling tears bespeak. 

The old man's hands across his breast 

I placed in everlasting rest, 

His ej-es and mouth I gently closed, 

Which soon in rigidness reposed. 

Smoothed down his hoarj^ beard and hair, 

And he lay on his stately lair. 

Like one who slept and sweetlj^ dream 'd, 

For with a smile his visage beam'd, 

Beam'd as if his immortal soul 

Still o'er that bod}' held control, 

Still lingered round its cherished clay, 

And lit it with a deathless ray. 

Unto the window swift I drew 

And wide the spacious casement threw, 

And pure and sweet the midnight air 

Rushed in from off its frosty lair, 

With noiseless tread, and silent breath 

I moved from out that hall of death. 

But as from out the room I drew, 

A lingering look behind I threw. 

For that moment the moon's bright beam, 

Did through the open casement stream, 

And did awe inspiring glow, 

Upon that dead man's features throw. 

So life-like 'neatli the light he seem'd. 

You would have sworn he livedand dream'd, 

That he was living you would vow ; 

Back I return'd and felt his brow. 

But it was cold as was the snow. 

That clothed the silent earth below. 



362 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

O'er which the moonbeams' silver glow 

DiJ its increasing glory throw, 

Then from that room with silent tread, 

And eyes that fas b their tear drops shed, 

His few attendants swiftly sped. 

And unto silence left the dead. 

The night wore on, the heath cock crew, 

And o'er the sky the morning grew, 

And far across the snowy wold 

Was heard the bleating of the fold. 

The roisy geese across the snow 

Moved forth with measured tread and slow, 

To where a crystal sparkling lake, 

Stood mirroring a firr}^ brake. 

The watch dogs from their kennels crawl'd, 

And to the coming morning brawl 'd. 

The drowsy horse within the stall. 

Was startled out of slumber s thnjl, 

Paw'd, switched his tail and pricked his 

ears, 
For plain his keeper's tread he hears. 
Heard crib door ope where lay the corn, 
Then neighing did salute the morn. 

VI. 

Then soon the morning's golden light 
Like conqueror burst on the night, 
The sun arose and o'er the earth 
All god-like splendor had its birth. 
The world was robed in dazzling white, 
Far as could roam the human sight — 
O'er wold and glen and mountains high, 
Whose icy peaks blazed in the sky. 
And far below the ocean's mass, 
Gleam 'd like a world of molten glass ; 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 3G3 

And glowin<^ iee-bergs throng'd its beach, 

Far as the human eye couki reach. 

With morning came a lively breeze, 

Which in bright motion set the seas, 

And shook the ic}^ sprigs of trees, 

Which stood with boughs and tiny stems, 

Glittering with ten thousand gems. 

Of everjr varied shaj^e and hue 

That yet the realm of nature knew, 

All things in brilliant forms were tossed, 

Fantastic as e'er vision crossed, 

Winter its dreariness liad lost, 

By the enchanting wand of frost. 

Waved trees enrobed in dazzling lioht 

Hung o'er with pearls and diamonds bright, 

And there the morning's sunshine kissed 

The glowing, purple ameth^-st, 

A thousand gems with beautj^ fraught. 

Beyond the soaring realm of thought. 

Out of the realm of frost were wrought 

And anto every thing were brought. 

The topaz and the ruby red. 

And stones that flashing crimson shed, 

The jasper and the chrysolite, 

And stones of sardine gleaming brioht 

With emeralds of flashing green. 

Were all in mingled glory seen ; 

With the sapphires glowing gem 

Hung over every bough and stem. 

There were the stately cedars seen 

With pines bedecked in gold and green, 

Holly, firs, and all the green wood. 

Enclosed in gold and silver stood. 

The weeping willows bowed their heads 

In grand array of shining threads, 



364 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Which lairVI on earth their drooping stems, 
O'er Lurden'd witli their flashing gems. 
From brittle ash trees tall and slim 
Oft times came down a broken limb, 
And showers of gems of ever}' hue 
From crashing branches sparkling flew. 
The dark C3'press, that tree of gloom. 
Which aye frequents the silent tomb. 
The flashing, frosty gaud assumed, 
And with a thousand gems was plumed. 
The meanest shrub that grows on mead, 
The most unsightly bush and weed, 
Things most deformed, the rugged thorn, 
The sapless bough by lightning torn, 
Displaj'ed o'er earth their branching arms. 
Bedecked with gems of flashing charms. 
Gems fair as ever 3'et were wrought. 
As e'er from nature's mines were brought. 
With every hue of Beauty fraught,. 
Yet sprung from out her teeming thought. 
The poplar, gum and giant elm, 
And oak the monarch of the realm. 
Where ever statel}' forests grow, 
Or lofty woodland shadows throw, 
Like waves of flame of rudd}^ glare, 
Toss'd their huge branches in the air. 
The breeze arose, far stronger blew. 
And all the trees that tallest grew. 
That were the comeliest to view, 
To earth their gaudy jewels threw. 
Cast them to earth with mute disdain, 
Displayed their rough, thick bark again. 
So the lion from liis slumber wakes, 
And from his mane the raindrops shakes. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLVNX. 3C5 

Which through the night have gathered 

there, 
And moisture east around his lair. 
The sun moved up his destined way, 
Still warmer grew his glowing ray, 
And drop hy drop the gems were cast 
Upon the earth that hid them fast, 
AAA'ay the baseless fabric past, 
Wrought out of frost by storm and blast, 
Dissolved away in flowing tears, 
Like human hopes and jo3'S and fears. 
For they are just as vain and frail. 
As fleeting and of small avail, 
As pomp wrought out of storm and hail, 
When morning's beams its gauds assail, 
All's but a vapor and a breath, 
Fate in a moment gives to death. 

VII. 

Some half a mile from Castle Flame, 
A rock rear'd high its giant frame, 
And with its head all wrapped in snow, 
Looked o'er the ocean far below, 
To this obscured from other's view, 
Guy Harold and Hunyadi drew. 
Here they'd been an hour and more. 
All their past actions talking o'er ; 
They all the past minutely scann'd, 
And for the future schemed and plann'd. 
Each heart was fill'd with mirth and hope. 
Read}'' with any toil to cope. 
For never in their lives before, 
Such golden hues the future wore, 
It all a glowing promise gave, 
Secure as either heart could crave. 



366 THE HEIR OP LYOLYXN. 

For while old Roger in his cave 
Lay groaning with his ghastly wound, 
No ease at all from leechcraft found, 
Nor signs of healing gave to view. 
He one night delirious grew, 
And in his sleep he muttered low. 
About his deeds of long ago 
The while alternate joy and Avoe 
Throughout his spirit seem'd to flow. 
At times he roam VI o'er land and flood. 
Mingled 'midst scenes of strife and blood, 
Muttered defiance to some foe. 
Would at him fearful curses throw. 
And fiercely deal him kick and blow. 
Till he in death had stretched him low — 
A grave with curse and laugh he made, 
And in it swift his victim laid. 
At times some house he sacked and burn'd. 
And smiled as it to embers turn VI. 
At times far milder grew his mood, 
And o'er religion seem'd to brood. 
At times he prajed for others good. 
Or preaching in the pulpit stood. 
Then suddenly would change his theme. 
Some murder straight would plot and 

scheme. 
Show signs of sufferings extreme. 
Then sing or terribly blaspheme, 
Then straight again his theme wouldchange. 
Through cities vast he'd seem to range, 
Meet men and call them all by name ; 
Serious oft his speech became. 
With those he met, at times it seemed. 
In tricky case at law he schemed, 
From case to case he quickly ranged, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 367 

Forged wills, and title deeds he changed, 
It seem'd he roam'd the country round, 
The lands of absentees he found, 
O'er these huge mortgages he made, 
Which to some dupe were soon conveyed, 
And unto him his price was paid, 
And long he'd chuckle to himself. 
When he'd received the shining pelf. 
At length with Apgar all alone. 
He schemed to fly to parts unknown ; 
A corpse placed in a cask of oil. 
Was brought to him from distant soil, 
Unto his home 'twas soon conveyed, 
Securely in his cellar laid, 
A corpse which strong resemblence bore — 
The form and face that Roger wore. 
The oil was pour'd his cottage o'er, 
Well soaked in it was roof and floor, 

Then in the night from it he fled, 

Left Apgar there the flames to sj^read. 

And that night from a ship at sea, 

Fe gladly watched it blazing free. 

Then muttered to himself with glee, 

Aha, what faith they placed in me, 

How nicely I have all deceived, 

But it will never be believed — 

But that I died in yonder flame. 

Nor wdl they dream I've played such game, 

'Gainst me not one, right well, I ween. 

Will ever hold a thought of spleen, 

Nor dream I'd do an action mean, 

For such in me was never seen. 

While thus the fever racked his brain. 

And throbbed his form with mortal pain. 

And all the actions of his past 



3G8 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Came trooping o'er his senses fast, 
And he laj- raving on his lair, 
Displaying joy or grim despair, 
Alternate triumph and defeat, 
As he would friend and foeman greet, 
There every word he said or sung, 
Each sjdlable that from him rung, 
Was in the tongue of some strange land, 
A language none could understand — 
Save 'Hmiyadi. To him 'twas known. 
All quite familiar as his own. 
And 'midst his ravings Roger told, 
How once a vast estate he sold, 
Which to an infant heir belonged, 
And told all how the child he wronged. 
Told how he did the child defraud 
Of all her lands and all her hoard, 
Robb'd, swindled her of all her right, 
Left her without one single mite. 

VIII. 

« 

Her mother died the very morn 
On which her infant had been born, 
Ere a j^ear from her birth had past, 
Her father had in battle died, 
And she upon the world was cast 
With one old uncle for her guide. 
Vast was his wealth, his fortune laid 
In broad and fertile tracts of land, 
Rich as ©"er yet have cattle strayed, 
Or e'er were 'till'd by human hand. 
Nigh to a city vast and great 
Which day by day still larger grew. 
Stood all this old man's broad estate, 
And fast the city towards it drew. 



THE HETR OF LYOLYXN. 369 

And to his mansiun grand and fair 

Wliieh al^ could from that city see, 

He took this child, his only heir, 

None other living kin had he. 

But soon by death was he removed, 

On all his wealth was she enthroned, 

For when, his will was read it proved 

To her he'd given all he owned. 

But as the child was all too young 

To manage an estate so broad, 

And so nought should from her be wrung 

By any acts of human fraud, 

William Stewart a lawjer learn 'd 

His executor he had made, 

A man who had in that city earn'd, 

A fame to Avhich all homage paid. 

All right had he to sell the lands, 
Or do with them as he saw fit. 
All such power was in his hands, 
Thrice in the will was plainly writ. 
The lands for building sites were sought. 
So for this purpose it was sold. 
And soon b}' builders all was bought, 
Converted into shining gold. 
Where he invested it again, 
Was to none in that city known. 
But ne'er flashed the thought in any brain 
He had the heir injustice shown. 
And when amidst the embers grim. 
The charr'd and ghastly cojpse was found, 
All deemVl some one had murder'd him, 
Then burn'd his cottage to the ground. 
And that the deeds and papers all 
Which showed where he the wealth had 
placed, 



i70 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNX. 

Which unto just and righteous call 
Each farthing of that fortune traced, 
Had witli himself and cottage wall 
By flames been ever more eflTaced. 
And though the records of that land, 
In all its cities far and near, 
Where search 'd b}^ eager heart and hand, 
From day to day, from year to 3^ear, 
And not the slightest trace was caught, 
To show where he had placed the hoard, 
Yet not a man was found who thought, 
Stewart had meant to rob his ward. 
Years flew on, and to womanhood 
The robb'd, the swindled heiress grew. 
But still a mystery it stood 
To where that ample fortune flew. 
Years swift flew by and she was wed, 
And one all noble son she bore, 
That son Hunyadi was, he who shed 
On earth the ruthless Omar's gore. 

IX. 

His ravings ceased, the fever broke, 
Old Hoger in the morning woke, 
All wistfully he gazed around. 
None saA'e Hunyadi near him found, 
A tear well'd from his lai'ge gra}^ eye, 
And came a long and heavy sigh. 
O'er brows liis boney hand he spread, 
As if to hide the tear that sped, 
Which glistened bright upon its bed 
Beneath the glare that tapers shed. 
With unshaved face and uncombed hair. 
And haggard face with gloomy air, 
He seem'd upon his lilthy lair. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 371 

A perfect image of despair. 

For grim remorse and mortal pain, 

O'er form and spirit lield tlieir reign ; 

Silent he lay a little space, 

Then drew his hand from off his face, 

With elbow resting on the bed. 

His hand from pillow propped his head, 

As thus he spake with mournful tone, 

That thrill'd through marrow, nerve and 

bone, 
Which echoed through that gloomy room, 
Like night winds sighing round a tomb. 

X, 

Oh, God, I've been a sinful man, 

And never since my life began. 

To men I've aught but evil wrought, 

Alike in action and in thought. 

Many I've ruin'd and betrayed, 

Many a wretch I've homeless made, 

Cast them out with hate and scorn,. 

Their forms and spirits crushed and torn. 

Many through me with woe have throbb'd. 

Many an infant heir I've robb'd, 

Orphans to ample fortunes born, 

I've turn'd to beggars all forlorn, 

Set them within the alms-house door. 

Took all their wealtli and kept them poor. 

And many a man at night I've slain 

Only a little spoil to gain. 

From year to jcar kept on this course. 

Nor ever felt the least remorse, 

And although through these years I 've past , 

And hoarded piles of treasures vast. 

Yet I'm of every friend bereft, 



3T2 TUB HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

To tend me now not one is left, 

Yes, no one but a stranger now 

Is here to lave m}' bvirnint^ brow. 

Apgar's gone and Omar too, 

And ever}' friend that once I knew. 

And a feeling dread and grim, 

Is stealing o'er mj form and limb. 

And well 1 know with every breath 

I'm hasting to the arms of death. 

'Tis sad to lie so ill at ease 

And think of awful things like these. 

And now there is but one relief, 

To all ni}' mortal throe and grief, 

And that is wine, j^es, ruddy wine 

Will soothe this pain and woe of mine, 

So haste and give me wine, and pain 

And grief shall fly with all their train 

Of dark infernal fiends and imps. 

Which from huge elephants to shrimps 

All forms and shapes and sizes show. 

That ever yet did mortal know. 

Give me wine, in its ruddy glow 

Is balm for my infernal woe. 

He ceased, and straight a mighty draught 

Of ruddy wine the old man quaffed, 

Then for a moment wild he laughed ; 

Hunyadi's hand in his he caught. 

And said, just now a happy thought 

Like lightning flash'd within my brain, 

Nor could I from a laugh refrain. 

For it roused the blood in every vein ; 

Though unremitting is ray pain, 

I've been puzzled of late in deed, 

How I should pa}' j-ou ample meed, 

For all your patient toil and care, 



THE IIETR OF LYOLYNN. 

While I have been bedridden here, 
There is a little cave that's known 
To none that breathe save me alone ; 
It is amidst a lofty line 
Of rocks that o'er a tarn incline, 
A waste of granite lone and wild. 
There all of Omar's hoard is piled. 
It chanced upon one stormy day, 
I thither saw him plod his way, 
In secret on his path I went, 
See on what errand he was bent, 
I climb 'd the erags and look'd around, 
But no where Omar's form I ftnxnd. 
An hour full I view'd the ground. 
Of Omar caught no sign nor sound. 
But still in secret there I lay. 
Where I could far the tarn survey. 
Where none could catch a view of me, 
But just where I could all things see. 
Sudden, emerging from a rock, 
A dark-gray, lofty granite block, 
The form of Omar I espied. 
Near an opening in that rock's side, 
A bulky rock I saw him lift, 
Which so completely fit the rift. 
Yes, so exactly fiU'd the space. 
Scarce any passer by would trace 

Though viewing it by noonday beam 

That round it was small zigzag seam. 

When Omar from the place withdrew. 

Had past entirely from view, 

I went and searched the place around, 

The rock that fit the rift I found, 

Swiftly away the rock I slid, 

And opened wide the hole it hid. 



311 



gTl THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

A passage small there met my sight, 

But all within was dark as night. 

A light I lit and onward sped, 

With watchful eyes and cautious tread, 

But soon a solid iron door, 

With bolts ami locks all covered o'er ; 

And fitted to the walls secure, 

Grim stoppage to the passage made ; 

But picking locks has been a trade 

From early bo^diood I have known, 

Ere I had unto manhood grown, 

Full many a lock had I undone. 

And entrance to rich coflers won. 

So soon these locks I open threw, 

And from their holds the bolts I drew, 

Right soon the door I opened wide. 

And there a pile of gold espied, 

There far more shining treasure glow'd, 

Than I e'er thought his coffers show'd, 

Yes, yes, far more than I e'er thought, 

Friend Omar had together brought. 

But not a coin away I bore. 

Although to leave that tempting store 

All untouched, grieved my spirit sore; 

I locked again the iron door, 

Fix'd ever}^ lock and bolt secure. 

As they had been arranged before. 

Back in the rift the rock I placed, 

And from the cave my steps retraced. 

I was the last of mortal man. 

That did the glowing treasure scan, 

Omar ne'er trod that cave again, 

For he soon after this was slain. 

There all that hoard doth still remain, 

And can by you right easy ta'en. 



THE HKTR OF LYOLYNN. 3*75 

Full nine times more than you. can bear 

Upon your back from there to here, 

Of shining gold lies piled up there, 

With silver bars of glowing sheen, 

And stones as bright as e'er were seen. 

But there secure that hoard will lay 

From men until the judgment da}'. 

Deep buried in that rocky ground. 

If I tell not how it can be found. 

So promise now that you will bring — 

To me one half of every thing — 

You'll find within that cavern stored. 

Then I'll tell how to find the hoard. 

I promise it, Hunyadi said. 

Then spake Lea, The pathway tread 

To where that lofty dark-gray earn, 

Towers above the sable tarn. 

Where midst the cliffs projecting round, 

The entrance to that shaft is found, 

Through which you've, oft in secret past, 

And in this cave your vision cast, 

The one from oat whose darkness rife. 

You witnessed mine and Johnson's strife. 

From where is seen that fissure's month. 

Step forty i:)aces towards the South ; 

There midst that wall of cliffs 3-ou'll find 

A rock that seems of different kind. 

It's the sole one of brownish hue. 

You 'midst the dark-gray cliff will view. 

Just move that stone from out its place, 

Behind you'll find an open sjiace, 

Which has the hue of midnight gloom ; 

Through at its mouth there scarce is room — 

To pass a man of form like 30U, 

But when by this you have past through — 



376 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

You soon a spacious vault will win, 

So fear you not to enter in — 

If 3'on would treasure win with eaae ; 

On 3'onder wall hang Omar's ke^s, 

Take them along, and haste and bring 

From out that cave each shining thing ; 

And if all square with me you share, 

The shining treasure you find there, 

I know where is another hoard, 

That Johnson in a cavern stored, 

Now speed 3-ou forth upon your way, 

I have no other word to sa}." 

But I know better far than j'ou. 

Where Johnson's hoard is hid from view. 

Thus to himself Hun3-adi thought, 

As from the wall the ke3'S he brought. 

XI. 

Forth from the cave Hunyadi sped. 
And sought the^raggy path that led 
To where the loft3i' dark-gray earn 
Towered above the gloomy tarn. 
He reached the fissure's gloom3^ mouth, 
Stepped forty paces towards the South, 
And midst the cliff of dark-gray hue, 
The brownish spot did shortl3^ view. 
From out its place that rock he slid 
Which straight reveal'd the hole it hid. 
He entered in that place of gloom, 
Which scarce unto his form gave room ; 
On, on he sped with light in hand, 
The secrets of that cavern scann'd. 
It was a cavern dark and lone, 
Dug in a ridge of solid stone. 
Which Apgar thirty 3^ears before — 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 377 

Had delved, wherein to hide his store, 

And unto none save him alone, 

And his son Omar was it known, 

And there was hidden all the wealth, 

The twain for years had won throughstealth. 

The door Hun^adi o[)ened wide, 

And there the shining hoard espied, 

Two heavy sacks of coin he caught, 

And from the cave the treasure brought, 

And straight from there to Castle Flame 

He with his shining treasure came. 

And in that castle all secure 

He shortly lodged his golden store, 

Then back with Harold quickly drew, 

With Bracklinn and O'Conna too, 

And all that cavern's shining store. 

To Castle Flame they safely bore. 

Then said the bard, I know the den 

Of one of Roger's other men. 

So come, we'll go this very day — 

And bear his shining hoard away. 

Then straight to Johnson's cave they past, 

Aud bore away his treasure vast. 

XIT. 

Thus caused it, why that frosty morn 
Bright smiles did either face adorn, 
Why hope and joy each bosom ftll'd. 
And either heart with rapture thrill'd, 
As there beside the rock the}'' drew. 
Obscured from other mortal's view. 
Treasure they had a shining store, 
Yet still their bosoms craved for more, 
Like all the race of human kind 
When glowing Fortune once they find, 



8^8 THE HEIR or LYOLYNN. 

It matters not how grand and vast 
Bright hoard within their kip is cast, 
Still, still they long for greater store, 
Unsatisfied still crave for more. 
And this is why their past they scanned, 
And for the beaming future plann'd. 

XIII. 

Now we must haste to Roger's den, 

The bard to Ilaiold said, And then 

Before one little week flies round 

You'll see we've far more treasure found, 

You trust to me and soon you'll find 

Your coffers with vast treasure lined. 

Now one vdiole day and night have past, 

Since I on Roger gazed my last. 

Since I in quest of Omar's gold. 

Left on his bed that miser old. 

To fret and grieve and curse and swear, 

'Till I should back with it repair, 

And give to him an ample share. 

But as I did not then intend 

To back with any treasure wend, 

Should 1 the hoard of Omar find, 

I told him just to ease his mind, 

That sleet and snow were falling fast, 

And rife was air with storm and blast, 

And not unless the hoard I found. 

Would I return 'till days went round. 

But stay and search that rocky ground. 

Now there the four of us must go, 

Then I can talk to Roger so 

As it may just beseem me best, 

Should he think in vain I did not quest 

For Omar's hoard, for well I know 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. M79 

On me lie'll strong suspicion throw, 

And think I've found the treasure bright 

And forth with it have ta'en my flight, 

!Nor share with him a single mite. 

T^or do I care to go alone 

This time within his gloomy den, 

Sooner to him would I be shown, 

With three or four good stalwart men. 

For false I've acted unto him, 

And every member of his crew, 

'Twas I prompted that carnage grim, 

Which for Zurn's supposed murder grew ; 

One day I to that vessel drew, 

And soon I made that spiteful crew 

Believe, 'twas Roger Lea alone 

"Who had their leader basely slain, 

!Nor did I tell them this in vain, 

All swore to make old Lea atone, 

Yes, deal upon him vengeance grim, 

And carve his body, thew and limb. 

And straight they fix'd npon a day 

To slay old Koger in his den, 

And then to bear his hoard away 

In spite of all his many men. 

They swore to pass through every glen. 

O'er every mountain, earn and fen, 

Over which held old Roger sway, 

And sla}' each member of his crew, 

Or make them cease his wilds to range, 

Other ways for livelihood pursue. 

And all their deeds and masters change. 

When I had roil'd their hate and spleen, 

And sti.-r'd up all their vengeance grim, 

Eight swift by me was Johnson seen. 

And all Lea's danger told to him. 



380 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 

Through 1113' advice he placed his men — 

In ambush midst each lonely glen, 

Which pathway gave o'er rock and fen, 

From ocean to old Roger's den. 

I wished tu see each robber band 

By one another waste away, 

For this I've brought them hand to hand 

In mortal and in fatal fray. 

In secret to each band I claimed 

A firm and trust}' friend to be, 

While I the hate of each inflamed 

Unto a wild and dread degree. 

I made them grim and fiercer foes 

Than either band would e'er have been, 

If I had ne'er amongst them chose 

To dwell, and stir their evil spleen. 

I taught them how to deal their blows. 

And 'gainst each other wage their fray. 

In deadly strife I made them close 

'Till all in slaughter round me lay. 

Their rage and hate I served to roil, 

Since ever I amongst them came, 

Gave them advice like pouring oil 

Upon a huge barn wrapt in flame. 

And on the day I went with Lea 

To go with him to foreign lands, 

I did intend ere night to see 

In jail this chief of robber bands. 

But fate has nobler done for me, 

For soon a greater prize I'll draw, 

Than had it chanced I'd placed old Lea 

Within the shackles of the Law. 

B}^ wounding him as fate has done, 

The fever caused by mortal pain, 

Has quite upset the old man's brain. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. .".Sl 

And made his tongue his secrets tell, 
Tiiat he's the one, lie's made it plain, 
Who did m}' mother's coffers drain, 
Yes, every farthing from her won, 
And soon m}- mother's wealth, her son 
Shall take back from the thief again. 
And handle him with vengeance fell. 
Stewart, whom all thought dead and burn 'd, 
To life in Roger Lea has turn'd, 
A stranger talc than this, I trow^ 
Ne'er chanced since nature's dawn 'till now. 
Oh, what a tale to tell that town. 
Where once he flourished his renown! 
When in his cave I tread once mere, 
He'll ask me after Omar's store, 
But trvist to me I'll tell no lie — 
Though hundred of his men be nigh, 
I'll make the thieving villain know 
That I am Mary Jollifle's son, 
Betide it peril, pain and woe, 
I'll make the gray-haired Roger show. 
What he with all her wealth has done. 
Back, he shall ever^^ mite return, 
By me shall every mite be won, 
Or I Avill make his cavern run 
With streams of reeking crimson glow. 
And with his gore that stream shall flow ; 
For him I thoughts of mercy spurn; 
His rock}^ cavern will not burn, 
But I will cause its overthrow. 
Fell powder in its vaults I'll place, 
Then Avith a spark, to azure space. 
The cursed Bower of Bliss I'll blow. 
The whole to ruin soon shall go, 
And every gold and silver urn. 



382 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And bars and coins of glowing ore, 
That make up lloger's ill got store, 
Which with contempt I once did spurn, 
Though me it lay in piles before 
All heaped around his caA'ern floor 
And for some treasure I did 3- earn, 
For I was threadbare, starved and poor 
And needed shining treasure sore, 
To pay ni}^ way to foreign shore. 
Was prgmpted long b}- Peter Zurn, 
Yes, yes, full two whole weeks and more 
To help mj'self and pay my wa}', 
Yet all untouched by me it lay, 
Yea, not a coin from it I took, 
Although so tempting it did look, 
No, it I touched not at that time, 
Because I deem'd it was a crime, 
A burning shame, a glaring sin, 
By stealth the least of hoard to win. 
Though at that time I knew full well 
That hoard through fraud to Roger fell. 
Yet not a coin of it I'd touch, 
Although I needed it so much. 
Though at that time my pride was such. 
Proud thoughts no more my feelings crutch, 
When e'er they bar my road to wealth, 
That has been ta'en from me by stealth, 
All hoard he's in his cavern set. 
Has stolen from his friends and foes, 
Shall go for insterest on the debt 
He to m}' poor dead mother owes 
But Guy Harold I brought 30U here 
To breathe a secret in your ear — 
I wished not Alice now to know. 
For it would only cause her woe ; 



THE HETR OF LVOLYNN. 333 

Though joy is out of sorrow born, 

With grief I wish not Alice torn, 

And more it might delay the morn, 

She shall your side as bride adorn — 

If you my awful secret knew. 

For 'twould be told to her by you. 

Though earth is but a world of lies, 

Where lives deceit, and virtue dies. 

Yet betide it woe, and none of weal, 

Should I m}' tak to you reveal. 

You would right off to Alice go 

And let her all chat secret know. 

And this would do no good, what e'er 

To haste the wedding now so near ; ' 

So what I purpose here to tell, 

A secret still shall in me dwell, 

Until the wedding day is i^ast, 

I would not it with clouds o er cast, 

But unto you this much I'll tell, 

And let it with you secret dwell ; 

At yonr wedding one well known man 

Amongst the guests you will not scan. 

One you expect, 30U will not see, 

For there George Mosman will not be. 

XIV. 

Silent those men a little space — 
Stood gazing on each other's face, 
'Till from the gaze Guy Harold broke. 
And all surprised, astonished spoke. 
" Hunyadi do you mean to tell 
That 'neath your hand George Mosman fell ? 
Come trust in me and tell me all, 
No word I'll breathe about his fall, 
I for his death feel nought of woe, 



384 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Say, have you. laid that villain low ?" 
" I did not cause his Mood to flow, 
Nor ever gave I him a blow, 
But ask no more, just let it rest, 
For silence in this thing were best, 
What e'er has happ'd is God's behest. 
To know it, show but little zest. 
Death oft becomes a welcomed guest. 
When after peace and joy we quest, 
If he some incubus removes, 
Which against our welfare proves. 
As time whirls down its changing groove?, 
It often much a man behooves 
• To lock some secret in his breast. 
And there forever let it rest, 
All undivulged unto tlie end, 
To mortal foe or bosom friend. 
Enough of this. Let's forward range, 
This place for Roger's cavern change. 
Come, come, I need some aid from you, 
From Bracklinn and O'Conna too." 

XV. 

Well arm'd with pistols, dirk and brand 
With willing heart and stalwart hand, 
Soon those four men were on the road 
Which led to Roger's grim abode. 
O'er hilly lands all clothed with snow, 
Which blinding gleam'd 'neath morning's 

glow. 
By rocks precipitous and vast, 
Bare, desolate, sublime and grand, 
Whose awful forms with ice o'er cast 
All gleaming stood on every hand, 
Where lins arrested in their flow, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 385 

And cUain'd by winter's wand of frost, 
Beneath the morning's ruddj- glow, 
Ten thousand forms fantastic show, 
In whicli their fettered waves were tost. 
Through forests dense as ever threw 
Their shadow over hill or glen, 
And thickets dense as ever grew, 
In haste those four together drew, 
And soon they reached old Roger's den. 

XVI. 

Upon his lair of filth and straw, 
111 at ease still la}' the old out-law. 
A mournful look his visage wore. 
And signs of coming death it bore. 
Yet still his mind for golden ore — 
Was just as eager as of yore, 
And scarce Hunj-adi trod his floor, 
Or ci'ossed the threshold of his door, 
Than straight he asked for Omar's Ftore. 
And though his wound was stiff and sore, 
"Was matted thick with filth and gore, 
Nor had been washed a week and more, 
Yet upright sat he on his lair, 
And on Hunyadi fix'd his stare. 
And said with voice deep, strong and clear. 
Why come you empty-handed here ? 
Say, are you willing now to swear, 
You found not Omar's treasure where 
I told you it was safely stored ? 
Then answer made the bard, The hoard 
I found just where you said 'twas stowed, 
And now it doth my coffers load, 
And not a coin that 'mongst it glow'd, 
Shall ever enter this abode. 



386 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 

And Johnson's hoard is also mine, 
Doth safe within my coffers shine, 
Nor ever shall one smgle mite 
Of all their treasure A^ast and bright, 
In your accursed possession fall, 
Long as God moves this earthly ball 
He ceased, and stood a little space, 
With his e^-es fix'd on Roger's face, 
Folded his arms at perfect rest 
Across his brawny swelling breast, 
A minute full he silent gazed, 
Nor once his eye from Roger's raised. 
But in neither Roger's face nor eyes- 
Was seen one atom of surprise. 
Placid and undisturbed he la}^, 
As some grim image wrought of clay. 
Tomb-like silence a little space 
Reigned over all that gloomy place, 
Nor was its awful silence broke, 
'Till thus again Hunyadi spoke. 
But Avhat he said was in the tongue 
Lea spake when with the fever wrung. 
The language of a foreign land 
Which not one there could understand. 
Save he and Lea. But what they spake, 
This is the meaning we shall take. 

XVII. 

"Lea, I am Mary Jolliffe's son. 

What with her treasure have you done ? 

Back every mite to me 3'ou give, 

Or I will prove 3'ou yet do live, 

Tell every one within that toAvn, 

Where once 3^011 spread such grand renown, 

That William Stewart is not dead, 



THE HEIR OF LTOLYNN. SSI 

But yet alive the earth doth tread, 

Did never witli his cottage burn. 

My mother's wealth to me return, 

And I will ne'er the truth reveal, 

And secrets wliich I now conceal, 

Which were I once to spread abroad — 

Would give you to the hangman's cord. 

I ask 3^ou in this tongue unknown 

To all save you and me alone. 

Because I wish not others here 

To know 3'ou William Stewart were. 

So back my mother's wealth give me, 

And 3'ou may ever more go free." 

Back on his reeking, filthy bed, 

Old Roger threw his hoary head, 

His arms across his breast he flunsr. 

And answered in that unknown tongue. 

" Think not because my wound is sore, 

And I have lost my strength of yore, 

Now cannot rise from of my bed. 

To cleave in twain your cursed head. 

And from yo\i tear j^our 13'ing tongue. 

That insult can on me be flung 

Without a punishment all dread 

As ever fell on mortal's head, 

I hold 3'ou as my deadly foe. 

And all 3^our friends that here 3'ou show, 

Though I can't rise to strike 3'ou low, 

I'll fearful odds against you throw. 

From here 3"0u never more go free 

To tell 3'our lies of Roger Lea, 

That awful vengeance 3'ou shall greet 

Which for such knaves as you is meet." 

This said, a fierce, wild shriek he gave, 

Which echoed throu2h the rockv cave. 



388 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 

And swift as moves a flock of teni, 
When coming huntsmen tliey discern, 
Or swift as rush a drove of hounds — 
To where tlieir masters 's whistle sounds, 
So svdft within that rock}^ den 
Rushed full two score of Roger's men. 
The best and bravest of his crew, 
That then his hills and valle3's knew. 
As desperate and savage band, 
As ever out-law 'd roam'd a land, 
On, on they came with gun and knife — 
To wage for Roger gory strife. 
Children of the Bower of Bliss, 
He fiercely shrieked, I never miss 
To vengeance deal on mortal foe. 
So strike j'on four base villains low. 
Down with the robbers, smite them dead, 
And cleave in twain each cursed head, 
And he who sheds Hun3'adi's gore, 
Shall have of gold a boundless store. 

XVIII. 

In vain old Roger cheer 'd his men, 
In vain they waged the combat then 
For their old Leader grim and hoar, 
Down went they 'neath those dauntless four, 
And soon in pools their reeking gore 
Streamed red along tliat cavern's floor, 
For they were met by shot and blow, 
By whizzing ball and powder's glow, 
By flashing sword and gleaming knife, 
And men that little recked for life. 
Right swift beneath TTunyadi's blade 
A corpse was sable Osman laid, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 389 

With head cleft through down, down he 

went 
As if by bolt of lightning rent, 
And right and left his gory way 
Hew'd red 'mongst Roger's grim array ; 
While by Guy Harold's reeking sword 
Their blood around in puddles poured ; 
By Bracklinn and O'Conna too 
On floor and "walls their life blood flew, 
And soon a score of Roger's men 
La};^ dead or dying in his den. 
And all the while the strife was waged, 
Upon his lair old Roger raged. 
And scream \1 and swore and tore his hair. 
And writhed all frantic with despair. 
For fast he saw his chieftains fall 
By either blade or pistol's ball. 
And though their muskets ceaseless blared , 
And dread each flashing volley flared, 
Yet harmless on those four they brayed. 
And not a single wound the}^ made. 
Unharmed those four stood up before 
Each volley's blazing, deafening roar. 
And back their frantic foes they bore — 
Through narrow passage to a room — 
Where two huge lamps dispelled its gloom, 
And there they rallied once again, 
And on the four rushed on amain. 
But as on rocks falls down the rain, 
Their vollej^s and their blows were vain, 
To wound or move those dauntelss four. 
Who still shed fast their foemen's gore. 
Right at the threshold to that room 
They stood and sealed their foemen's doom. 
There the bard and Harold sword in hand 



390 THE HEIR OF LTOLYNN. 

Kept back at bay all Roger's band ; 
While Brackliiin and O'Conna stood 
Right between those champions good, 
And swiftly did their pistols load, 
And on tlieir foes their shots bestowed. 
Again they charged, and shot again, 
'Till every wretch in Roger's train 
Down, down was shot like dri^^en deer, 
Lay either dead or dj'ing there. 
Then back to Roger's room they sped, 
And gathered round that miser's bed, 
'Midst the dense, sulphureous smoke 
That all throughout that cavern broke, 
A ghastly hue bis visage wore — 
Perhaps as ever mortal bore. 
His eye balls glowed like coals of flame, 
And wild there glare through darkness 

came. 
And fired grim with rage and hate, 
He all undaunted braved his fate. 

XIX. 

Across Lea's face of ashj^ hue. 
His reeking sword Hunyadi drew, 
" Now 3 ield my mother's hoard," he said. 
•' Or cleft shall be your cursed head." 
'• Your threats base villain I defj^, 
Think not that Roger fears to die, 
Nor deem one mite of all that hoard 
Shall ever be to 3 ou restored. 
Where it is no one knows save me, 
And told to jou, 'twill never be. 
The secret where that treasure vast 
Amidst these vaults and cave is cast, 
Will never be to mortal known, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 391 

When life from Roger Lea has flown. 

Though you've out witted all m^^ men, 

And murdered all within my den, 

You cannot frighten Roger Lea, 

More than a rock by roaring sea, 

Nor wring one secret out of me, 

I do not choose to tell 3-ou free 

The thing that you now seek to know, 

Though me 'twould save from death and 

woe. 
I'll never breathe to mortal man, 
So do the worst Imse Avretch you can. 
You'll find unto the bitter end 
Whatever fate may 'gainst me send, 
Though I cannot m^'self defend, 
That Roger's soul you cannot bend — 
Nor do a deed nor speak a word. 
Not done of his own free accord. 
Think not I heed 3-our reeking sword, 
Or fear your violence and fraud, 
Base villain, I have trusted 3-ou — 
As I have only trusted few, 
Placed more faith in 3'ou than any man 
I've ever met since life began, 
M}' arsenal wiiliin yonr charge 
I placed, 3-es, every thing at large 
That was within my cavern stored, 
That looked like pistol, gun or sword, 
Ldve powder, caps and shot and ball, 
Yes, in your hands I trusted all ; 
And with blank cartridges, 3'ou knave, 
You've charged each weapon in my cave, 
And when my men their volleys poured, 
They all unharming at you roared. 
But think not you shall 'scape my wrath. 



392 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Nor pass from here all free of scath, 
For 3'ou shall die a death all grim, 
I'll have you hrokeu limb by limb, 
I3ehold in ponder room the wheel, 
You soon shall all its terror feel ! 
I've drawn a cord that rings a bell, 
That rests upon my highest fell. 
Its sound will fly o'er hill and dell, 
My need for aid to all will tell — 
For never is it heard to sound — 
Save when grim dangers me surround, 
And soon it to this cave will fetch, 
Men who your cursed form will stretch. 
Break, tear and crush on yonder wheel. 
Yea, on yon grim revenge will deal. 
They'll i)ierce ^-ou through with burning 

steel, 
And all the agony you'll feel. 
That can by mortal flesh be felt. 
Or yet to any wretch was dealt, 
You soon will find that Roger Lea, 
Can never, never conquered be." 
''Flatter not yourself," the bard replied, 
"That an}' aid will seek j-our side. 
For I have climbed that lofty fell 
And torn the clapi)er from your bell. 
Away I brought its iron tongue, 
And it within a gurge I flung, 
'Twill never more by you be rung, 
Nor by that cord be exev swung, 
It with my knife I did divide. 
Its end unto a sapling tied, 
So you can pull that cord, old man. 
And please 3-ourself as best you can 
But not a man by it will come, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

As well seek answer from the dumb. 
When first at joii I shook my sword, 
I saw^ you grasp and pull that cord, 
And I Avas really forced the while 
To turn from 30U my face and smile. 
And think how the sapling on the fell 
Was rocked and swung in place of bell. 
My plans gainst you are all complete, 
And you can bring them no defeat. 

First every gun in this abode 

With blank cartridge I did load, 

Left nought in them could wound or maim, 

With every pistol did the same. 

Then in each cartridge box did look, 

The ball from every package took, 

And in its stead I powder placed, 

Taking good care, none looked defaced, 

Yea, tied up each so firm and neat, 

That none would e'er detect the cheat 

And every shot and ball I threw 

Where they would never meet the view 

Of any of your cursed crew; 

Then blades from out their sheathes I drew, 

And SAvift a strong cement I made 

It painted thick o'er every blade 

Then in each sheath the paste I poured. 

Back placed each ataghan and sword, 

And there they rest glued so secure 

From their sheathes none will draw them 

more, 
'Twas only in the time of need. 
You or your men found out the deed. 
Yes, it discovered all too late 
To any way avert your fate. 
All in vain 'gainst me they fought, 



593 



394 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And have their own destruction wro-ught 
And ever}' scheme 'gainst you I've laid, 
You'll find I have all perfect made, 
Will all in triumph end to nie — 
As this has done, jou'll shortly- see. 
Vast trains of powder I have laid, 
Ready with fuses all are made' 
Were I to them one spark bestow, 
I'd into air your cavern blow, 
Make it Avhirl midst fiery gloWj 
And gi\e 3-ou lasting overthrow, 
To me my mother's wealth restore, 
And I will never harm 30U more. 
Will let you roam from shore to shore, 
And steal alike from rich and poor." 
"No, not one mite from it I'll give. 
Though thousand years through it I'd live, 
Nor all the force on land and sea 
Can daunt the soul of Roger Lea, 
Smite on, do all the worst you can. 
For I def)' all force of man. 
On me all violence you waste, 
And where I have that treasure placed — 
Save me no breathing mortal knows, 
And ne'er will I its place disclose, 
And when I'm dead then none will know, 
Or where I placed that treasure show." 
Thus spake old Lea and from his lair 
Gazed on his foe with dauntless air 

XX. 

Then you shall die, Hunyadi said. 
And poised his sword o'er Roger's head 
But ere the gory weapon fell. 
There burst a wild, unearthly yell, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 395 

From old Matilda's throat it rung — 
As 'neath the sword her form she flung. 
Swift at the gory blade she sprung 
And screaming to the weapon clung. 
Dread was her mien and wild her look, 
All o'er like aspen leaf she shook, 
Down hung at length her thin, gra}^ hair, 
O'er features grim with dread despair, 
O'er wrinkled visage pale and thin, 
O'er toothless mouth' and long, sharp chin, 
O'er furrow 'd forehead broad and high, 
And heavy brows that shaggy lie, 
O'er sable eyes that flame beneath, 
Like daggers darting from their sheath. 
Which with a wild, unearthly glare, 
Fix'd on Hanyadi rigid stare. 
Her form was broad, erect and tall. 
And massive bone and sinew all. 
And all so lank and lean and gaunt, 

She looked like hunger grim and want. « 

But vigor lay within her frame, 

Which only few of men could claim. 

Close bending to Hunj^adi's ear 

So what she said Lea could not hear, 

Strike not, she said, Deal not a blow, 

And where that wealth is placed I'll show, 

That is, if you will truly swear, 

No more with us will interfere. 

Leave us alone in every thing, 

Nor aught of harm against us bring." 

Then swift replied he in her ej^r, 

•' I promise it," Hunyadi said. 

In whispers none but she might hear, 

"For this I pledge my life, my head, 

Soon as my treasure j^ou restore, 



396 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

I'll ne'er molest or harm 3'ou more." 

" Then come with me," she whispered low, 

" And 3' on shall all about it know." 

And with her honey hand still laid 

Upon Hunyadi's gory blade, 

Leaving the others by Lea's bed, 

Hunj'adi from the room she led. 

Trod through an entry dense with gloom, 

Until they reached a spacious room. 

Where flared a smoking taper dim, 

And where upon the wall all grim 

A human skeleton was hung, 

Whose gliastl}" bou}' fingers clung, 

Around tlie hilt of dagger sheen. 

Which glowing through the room was seen. 

She strode that skeleton befoi'e — 

And thus commenced to speak once more. 

But while to speak she thus began, 

With tears her sable eyes o'er ran. 

XXI. 

" In yon grim skeleton you see 

All's left of one once dear to me . 

Although 'twas he my ruin wrought, 

And me unto this cavern brought, 

Yet still his fleshless bones I love 

Far, far all earthly things above. 

He brother was to Roger Lea, 

And husband unto me was he. 

He lived 'till he had hoary grown, 

And much of shining wealth did own ; 

Nor known was there o'er land or sea — 

A richer man than Orla Lea. 

With Hugh De Yaux it chanced one day 

Through forests vast he took his way. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 39'j 

Unto a lonely place thoy drew, 

And Hugh De Vaux my Orla slew, 

On earth his precious life blood poured, 

And robbed him of an ample hoard ; 

Nor had I known how Orla died, 

Had not TJlrick the deed espied ; 

Who did to me the story tell. 

Then limned the scene on canvas well 

A huge painting of the scene he drevr, 

And hung it up to public view, 

It now at Mosman's grange you'll see 

At least so Roger told to me, 

For years the murderer was sought, 

But never unto justice brought. 

To distant lands the villain fled. 

A fearful life of crime he led, 

Dreadful as ever mortal kncvr, 

And died amongst a ship-wrecked crew. 

But late I learned from Johnson's tongue, 

You were the only one among 

That crew wdiere Hugh De Vaux had died, 

Was living on the raft espied. 

And more I learned, tliat it was you. 

That ruthless Omar's life blood drew, 

Him I abhorred with mortal dread 

And I am happy, he is dead. 

When Orla fell, this cave I'd fled. 

And sought some distant bield or shed, 

Where in to shield my aged form 

From summer's heat and winter's storm, 

But I was watched both day and nl<rht 

And ne'er from here could take my flight. 

At length unto my fate, my mind 

Grew all tranquil and resigned, 

I mistress of this cave became. 



398 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And here I reign supreme, m}' name 

Is well revered by every man 

That ever joined old Roger's clan. 

Yes, me, they every one revere 

With reverential awe sincere, 

To me his share of spoil they bring, 

I watch and guard o'er every thing. 

And vast, yes, countless is the hoard 

I have within this cavern stored. 

In counting it I spend my time, 

And deaden thus remorse for crime, 

But never Roger ever knew, 

The secret I from Orla drew, 

How of her wealth he did defraud 

An orphan that became his ward, 

Nor that Orla to me disclosed 

"Where that poor orphan's hoard reposed, 

For had he known that I knew this, 

Me he had murdered straight, I wis, 

And had with me the secret hid — 

For ever 'neath the coffin lid. 

XXII. 

Just 3^on grim skeleton behind 
A little secret vault you'll find, 
Within it rest the bonds and deeds. 
And they are all that mortal needs 
To show where Mary JoUiffe's hoard 
Is all in lands and houses stored. 
Yes, every mite he stole from her, 
He did to Orla Lea transfer, 
And in a city huge and great, 
Was bought a vast and grand estate. 
But search the papers, they will tell 
What of your mother's wealth befell." 



THE HEIR or LYOLYNN. 399 

XXIII. 

Where that grim skeleton was hung 
With tempest's speed Hunyadi sprung, 
Upon tlie floor the bones he flung, 
A door of stone he open swung. 
Whose rusty hinges screaked and roar'd 
And far and loud their grateings poured, 
And swift from out the vault he drew, 
All papers there that he could view, 
And straight he read Avith lightning speed 
All o'er each mortgage, bond and deed. 
Though much with time and damp defaced. 
They showed where mighty wealth was 

placed, 
And in the name of Orla Lea 
Was placed all treasure he could see, 
To Orla every thing belonged 
Of which his mother had been wronged. 
A treasure vast, a mighty hoard. 
Placed in dominions fair and broad. 
While did the deeds Hunyadi scan, 
Matilda with a sigh began. 
" Were all 3'our mother's wealth on earth 
Appraised at double its full worth. 
Her houses, lands and everj^ thing — 
She own'd ,the3^ would not the treasure bring 
To-day, if in the markets sold, 
As would these deeds you now behold, 
So Roger you will see knew best, 
How all her treasure to invest. 
Xo mite of it from yon he's ta'en, 
But only placed it to your gain, 
No mite of interest he has spent. 
But to increase the whole it went, 
Nor was it ever Lea's intent 



400 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

To wholly rob your mother, he meant 

To haA'B it all restored some da}', 

When he from earth had past away, 

And here I have a will he's made. 

Where in it's back to her conveyed." 

She ceased and to a vault she flew, 

From thence a roll of parchment drew. 

And it right swiftly she unroll'd, 

Smooth 'd out each wrinkle, crease and fold, 

From off it shook the dust and sand, 

And thrust it In Hunyadi's hand ; 

It to the light Hunyadi drew, 

And o'er it cast his eager view, 

'Twas written o'er from end to end, 

In writing bold as e'er was penn'd. 

The language was that foreign tongue — 

Lea spake when with the fever wrung. 

To Mary Jolliffe it restored, 

With interest all her stolen hoard, 

And unto it was added thrice 

Its full amount at highest price, 

After it all to her conve^^ed. 

Or in favor of her heirs was made, 

The will went on to tell the cause, 

Why the guardian robb'd his ward, 

" Let those who fancy 'twas through fraud 

I have deprived her of her hoard, 

Just for one moment list'ning pause, 

And hear a word or two from him — 

Who may seem to have acted grim — 

Unto his little orphan ward 

Whose welfare he had sworn to guard, 

I care not if the world condemn 

My acts, and for them me contemn, 

Or if men with pity look on me, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 401 

And from all censure set me free. 

Their vcngeanc, pity or their hate, 

I prize alike at equal i-ate, 

Nor are they heeded more b}' me — 

Than granite cares for stormy sea, 

Nor for the drowning ship-wrecked wretch 

The roaring waves beside it fetch. 

Wlien that orphan my ward became, 

I loved her with a holy flame, 

Though many years had o'er me fled, 

And time had grizzly made my head. 

And she a little infant then. 

Of scarcely more than summers ten, 

My spirit grew to love her more 

Than I had mortal loved before, 

I loved the ground on which she trod, 

I loved her more than self or God, 

I loved her more than fame or hoard. 

The very air she breathed adored. 

She was a bright and lovely child 

As ever yet on nature smiled, 

Where Beauty all her gifts had piled, 

Yet holy, meek and calm and mild, 

Her spirit pure as serajDh's love. 

Glorious as the saints al)ove. 

Oh, God, to think of her pure soul. 

And mine so bow'd 'neath sin's control! 

By her I seem'd a devil grim 

Placed near a holy Cherubim. 

I cursed m^^ fate and Maker too. 

For letting me such pureness view. 

The time wuuld come, full well I saw 

Her wealth would round her wooers draw. 
And some one would her woe and w^ed, 
A.nd me these thoughts to vengeance led. 



402 IHE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Straight I commenced to plot and plan — 
So that might never mortal man — 
The maid and also treasure own, 
While mongst the living I was known, 
No mortal man should both enjoy, 
I would such happiness destroy, 
Fate had upon me treasure cast, 
And unto me had poured it fast. 
And glowing on the cliffs of Fame 
For learning had rear'd high my name. 
Of these 1 had such boundless store, 
No mortal heart could wish for more, 
They came to me unasked, unsought, 
And I held all those gifts as nought, 
For fate forgot one gift to give 
For which I only cared to live, 
A boon I prized all else above. 
An object worthy of my love. 
For this I sought, but could not find. 
Though long I searched 'mongst woman- 
kind, 
Until my rosy ward I saw, 
Who fill'd my soul with love and awe ; 
But her I never could hope to wed, 
As well mate the living with the dead. 
Yes, all too young and fair was she. 
To love a hoary man like me ; 
Grim, ruthless Fate had 'tween as placed 
An all unmeasurable waste. 
It seem'd fate placed her by my side — 
To twit me with the bliss denied. 
Perhaps, when a few 3'ears had flown — 
And she to womanhood had grown. 
Had I but waited there and tried, 
I might have made my ward my bride. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

I could have made her wed with me, 

Had I seen fit it so to be, 

For guardians do as they please. 

And wards are theirs to pet or tease. 

But just suppose I had her wed. 

Oh, what a joyless life she'd led 1 

Mated with one she could not love. 

Though she was prized all else above ! 

No, though depraved and vile I am — 

A life so sweet I could not damn. 

Nor could I ever wedded be 

With one I loved, who loved not me. 

So from her presence straight I fled, 

Making all fancy I was dead, 

For I intended never more 

To tread again her native shore, 

Nor view the form I did adore. 

All, all the wealth I took from her. 

And did to Orla Lea transfer. 

When I on earth have breathed my last 

Shall be return 'd with interest vast. 

Perhaps, when I am born again, 

My soul o'er other flesh shall reign. 

We'll meet once more, equal years maintain , 

And me to love she'll not disdain. 

Perhaps again on earth we'll move, 

And then each other's partner prove. 

XXIV. 

Much more, written in this odd strain, 
Those sheets of parchment did contain, 
But here to read Hunyadi paused, 
For one wild pang of pity caused 
A strange emotion in his soul, 
And straight his tears began to roll, 



403 



4j04 thb heir op lyolynn. 

A moment's space that pity glow'd 
And thronghout all his spirit flow'd, 
But in a moment it had fled, 
And hatred in its place had sped, 
It came, it went like lightning's flash, 
Which only brings the thunder's crash, 
And makes the cloud's torn, tawny form 
Still darker grow midst roaring storm. 
The tears he from his e^'e lids threw, 
Wiped from his cheeks their briny dew, 
Swiftl}^ did he the parchment fold. 
It to a little parcel roll'd, 
And it securely placed to rest 
Within the pocket of his vest, 
And from that place to Roger's bed, 
Burning with rage and hate he sped. 

XXV. 

Far milder mood old Roger wore 

Than he had one hour before. 

No more his aged form and soul, 

Were swayed 'neathrage and hate's control. 

For Harold with vast draughts of wine — 

Had roused his joy that lay supine. 

A smile o'er all his visage broke, 

As thus of life and death he spoke. 

" Preachers tell us, that when man dies, 

His so\il takes immediate rise 

To happy bowers in the skies, 

And basks before its Maker's eyes ; 

That is if it ne'er did a sin, 

And strove God's paradise to win, 

But oh, if it has wicked been 

And loved iniquity obscene. 

He then shall go 'till endless time — 



THE HEIR OP LTOLYNN. 405 

Amongst the fiends of sin and crime — 
Where everlasting fires bnrn, 
And devils shall it broil and turn, 
Yes, fry and roast and flog and spurn 
That spirit through a seething urn, 
While fiends shall dance and mock its cries ! 
I wish that I could stop such lies. 
Now where is this heaven and this hell ? 
Can any preacher come and tell? 
If either place they can me show, 
I would with them most gladly go, 
If but for an hour or so. 
And view each place of bliss or woe. 
They tell us heaven is above, 
A place of bliss and joy and love, 
Where souls do nought but shout or sing 
Their praises to all Nature's King. 
Now if we could only take a rise. 
And journey through the spacious skies, 
We nothing there would view, I ween, 
But mighty worlds with air between. 
Worlds similar to this we tread, 
I think would be around us spread, 
And there we'd also beings find — 
Perhaps much like us human kind, 
But of far higher, nobler mind, 
For far mighter works designed. 
Beings that would deem it disgrace 
To kinship claim with Adam's race. 
Who think all things in nature grown — 
Are for their use and theirs alone. 
No, preachers do a mortal sin, 
To teach such gospel flims}^, thin. 
They should their congregations teach — 
When of heaven or hell the}^ preach, 



406 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

That heaven is around them here, 
Not in some far off starry sphere, 
Teach, this is the place of bliss and love, 
That heaven is round them, not above, 
And if for burning hell we scan 
Throughout creation's boundless plan. 
Where shall we find this blazing clime 
Doom to consume the souls of crime ? 
They tell, this world of ceaseless glow — 
Where spirits groan with endless woe, 
Is deep beneath, in realms below. 
But whei'c they don't exactly show, 
We must take their word for the deed, 
And without proof believe their creed. 
Their tale I'd soon believe, as reed — 
Could carry me as well as steed. 
And to such stuff I pay no heed 
More than unto some worthless weed. 
Which under foot in haste I tread, 
When on important business sped. 
They tell, the soul that lives in man, 
Whose being did Jehovah plan. 
And as Himself immortal made. 
Which never can decay invade. 
Is to die a lingering death — 
Midst flames of sulphureous breath. 
Why man's spirit itself is flame, 
And from deathless fire it came , 
How shall fire, fire destroy? 
How can fire, fire annoy? 
Such tales of heaven and of hell 
Preachers may to idiots tell, 
Who may such foolish stuff believe, 
And as fixed truth the whole receive, 
But this earth is man's hell or heaven, 



THE HBIR OK LYOLYNN. 407 

Is true as six and one are seven. 
Worthless yeast makes worthless leaven, 
And bakes into bread that's sour — 
Dough made from the best of flour. 
This earth we a hell or heaven make — 
As we good and ill choose or forsake. 
It ma}^ to me a heaven bloom, 
While to my friend it seems a tomb — 
Where eveiy joy is buried deep, 
And he is left to groan and weep, 
To mourn with spirit crushed and sore 
O'er joys that shall return no more. 
God places man vipon this earth 
With spirit of immortal birth. 
And this soul is man's only worth. 
It swaj'S the form with stubborn will, 
Makes it do either good or ill. 
Some men are born with feeble soul, 
That can't its mortal form control, 
And it is Fate and Nature's liiult — 
If on the path of good it halt, 
And turns aside to follow ill, 
That is, if done against its will. 
And those feel really more of hell — 
Than flames can give however fell. 
Remorse for deeds of evil done, 
And paths we've trod we should have shun, 
On which we still keep our course. 
As led by some terrific force, 
Is greater hell to any soul 
Than flames however fierce they roll. 
As we conceive the wrong from right — 
We create sorrow or delight. 
The idiot's frail, shattered mind — 
To every sense of reason blind, 



408 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Completely to his fate resigned, 
No eA'il in his deeds may find. 
He knows no more than beasts we goad, 
To move off a miry road, 
So they can draw the loaded wain 
O'er path the^^'ll have no need to strain, 
And life of sin may seem to him 
A heaven all complete and trim. 
While others that around him dwell 
May deem his life a perfect hell. 
Heaven and hell are lost and won 
As good or ill we greet or shun, 
And depends how is form'd the mind — 
Which most to good or ill resigned. 
Some men amongst the race we find 
Whose intellects surpass their kind, 
Who mountain-like stand up sublime — 
Through all the ceaseless change of time — - 
For majesty of deed and thought : 
Spirits that seem far nobler wrought, 
And all with greater glor}^ fraught — 
Than most on earth the Godhead brought. 
Who seem by works they've left mankind, 
God inspired their soul and mind. 
These deathless souls to forms of earth 
Ages before had given birth. 
To men had given breath and life, 
And fill'd them all with vigor rife, 
But ne'er warm'd forms of other plan 
Than that of woman or of man. 
For their spirits are all the same, 
Though different be their mortal frame. 
All sparks of an immortal flame. 
Which from the boundless Godhead came. 
Every thing in Nature's bower 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 409 

Teems with recreative power, 

Man and beast and grass and flower, 

Trees tliat o'er tlie broad eartli tower, 

Are endowed and teemiug rife 

With germs of generative life, 

But only after its own kind 

This power is to each assigned, 

Souls that have beasts with being warmed, 

Ne'er life to man or woman formed, 

Souls that have been to dogs bestowed, 

Ne'er in elephants or lions glowed. 

For nothing can its being change 

That's in Creation's boundless range, 

Every thing that breathes, when it dies 

Shall again in its own nature rise, 

All things that die, again shall live, 

Its life, life once more to matter give, 

Ne'er of this power will it be free — 

'Till all save God shall cease to be. 

My soul when I cease my being here 

May wander to some other sphere, 

And mingle with the spirits there — 

Who forms and natures like us wear, 

But beings of far greater thought, 

And witli sublimer feelings fraught, 

In one of them I may be born. 

Their nobler form this soul adorn, 

And there a thousand years or more 

I'll mingle with those beings pure, 

This while my soul from them has caught 

Purer feelings and sublimer thought. 

And in all things more perfect grown 

Than while it here on earth was knoAvn, 

And while my being thus is fraught 

With those grand spirits' glowing thought, 



410 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 

In all their ways most perfect taught, 

As if of their grand being wrought, 

Through time the form that I have there 

Will die just as this will die here, 

And I my sphere again must change, 

And back once more on earth may range, 

Prometheus-like I come to earth 

Bringing flame of heavenl}' birth ; 

Soon life unto some germ I give, 

And in an embryo I live. 

Am born again in mortal man. 

And thus is life once more began. 

Soon I am reaz'ed to manhood's prime. 

And give to men my thoughts sublime. 

And stand a land mark through all time — 

On wisdom's page in every clime. 

Thus to earth, methinks those spirits came 

Who seem all wrought of heavenly flame. 

Who for wisdom have placed their name — 

Eternal on the cliffs of fame ; 

Who mountain-like stand up sublime 

For learning through all changing time, 

Who sun-like do illume the earth 

With thoughts to which they've given birth. 

Tri'umphant on the car of time, 

For useful thought tliej" stand sublime ; 

And loud upon the world's broad tongue 

Their names shall evermore be rung, 

Like sound that dotn no ending know 

Above a torrent's ceaseless flow. 

In times of war as well as peace, 

Men oft diminish or increase, 

A war may last a single day, 

A million men die in the fra}^, 

Yet, ere a fleeting ^-ear shall go, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 411 

Tlie census of that land may show 

A million extra males were born, 

A million extra babes adorn 

The birtli roll of that teeming shore, 

Than known in any year before, 

These are tlie souls of those men slain, 

Reborn in mortal flesh again. 

Or every one of them find birth 

In other quarters of the earth, 

With men increase that land thus more 

Than it had ever known before ; 

The nation where those men were slain, 

Those numbers ne'er may know again. 

The census of the world to-day, 

If it we carefull}^ survey. 

No greater mass of men can show. 

Than shown two thousand 3'ears ago ; 

If in some land they have increased, 

At once their growth in others ceased, 

And smaller down their numbers drew, 

As they elsewhere still vaster grew. 

There's Spain, some centuries ago. 

She eighty millions souls could show ; 

How small to-day her throng compared — . 

'Gainst that she in past ages reared ; 

So over all the world's vast face 

Changes are ever taking place ; 

And spirits change from clime to clime. 

And are reborn throughout all time ; 

Tliey may increase on this world here. 

And diminish on some other's sphere. 

Or the}^ may decrease on this earth a while, 

And to some other planet file. 



412 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

XXVI. 

Here ceased old Lea, for to his bed 
With savage look Hunyadi sped, 
And fiercely o'er that hoary head 
He shook his sword all gory red. 
And he had stretched old Roger dead, 
Had not Harold to his rescue fled, 
Who 'tween them thrust his giant strength, 
And parted them his arms full length. 
"Stay, stay Hunyadi, stay," he said, 
"Oh, cleave not thou so hoar a head I 
If left alone hell soon be dead, 
So there's no need his gore to shed ; 
He's sinking fiist 'neath death's control, 
May God have mere} on his soul. 
An hour back I saw a change 
Steal o'er his features grim and strange, 
And it has every moment grown. 
More death-like aspect o'er them thrown, 
Look on his ghastly corpse-like brow. 
Behold the man is dj-ing now." 
"Let him dare strike," Lea calmly said, 
"He can do nought but smite me dead, 
For nearly five and ninety years 
I've journied through earth's vale of tears. 
But ne'er to sorrow would I bow, 
And ne'er have wished for death 'till now; 
This sore and grievous wound of mine, 
Which finds no ease from leach nor wine, 
Now pains me to such wild degree, 
I wish death would straight set me free. 
Cursed be the wretch who did the deed. 
May endless tortue be his meed. 
If in spirit world I meet his soul, 
I will deal on him endless dole, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 413 

Yes, he shall feel my vengeful arm, 
If spirit can a spirit harm." 



XXVII. 



He ceased, for ftist upon the floor 
From off the bed there stream 'd some gore 
Fast on the floor the crimson ran, 
And weaker grew the hoarj' man. 
From oflr Lea's form Guy Harold drew 
The sheets, and placed the wound to view. 
An artery there hatl burst, and blood 
Had from it gushed in ample flood, 
From out the wound the tide stream VI ftist, 
And soon the lair with gore o'er cast. 
He strove to stop the fatal drain. 
But all his skill and toil were vain. 
Out, out it gushed anew, anew, 
And Lea each moment weaker o-rcw 
"Let it bleed on," Lea calmly cried, 
" I love to see its crimson tide, 
Nor be to me this joy denied. 
So take your hands from off my side I 
Hun3'adi think not even now 
I quail before your angry brow, 

I do not dread your gory brand 

More than I fear an infant's hand, 

If were pointed at me every sword 

That is within earth's kingdoms broad, 
They would not daunt old Roger Lea, 
More than the rock fears raging sea. 
But come and listen calm to me, 
Ere I of you and pain am free. 
The wealth you so much crave to own — 
Will shortl}^ in your grai^p be thrown, 
Some thirty years ago and more, 



414 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

A letter I to Ulrick bore, 

I seal'd it sure and made him swear — 

That he would not it open tear, 

Nur lead what I had written there, 

'Till I was dead and on my bier. 

But soon as this was to him proved. 

That seal should then by him be moved, 

And he should read that letter through, 

Perform what there in asked to do. 

That letter gives to him the clue— 

What place to find a will I made. 

Where to j^our mother's wealth conveyed. 

So when I've ceased my vital breath, 

Am silenced on the lap of death, 

Then straight to him the news convey. 

From him leai'n all I have to say, 

If much your mother's wealth 3'ou crave." 

"Ulrick is dead and in his grave.'' 

"When died the man ?" "Three days ago." 

"By heaven, is it really so ? 

He was the only man I'd trust. 

The only one I decm'd was just, 

And upright in his soul and mind, 

Tliat I o'er all this world could find — 

Amongst the sons of Adam vast. 

And since he from this life has past, 

Earth is of honor now bereft, 

I'd trust not one that's living left, 

Though on religion's highest perch ; 

But go and mongst his papers search. 

And you will there my letter find. 

Which will make plain all to j-our mind, 

'Twill tell 3"ou on what spot of ground 

The will I made is to be found. 

And through that will you'll shortly know 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 415 

Ox' all my worclly bliss and woe, 

Down from the cradle to the grave." 

" Is not that will within this cave ? 

Now if you have it hidden here, 

Why not tell me the secret where ? 

I can't for Ulrick's papers go, 

Where they are jDlaced, I do not know. 

Why not this will unto me show — 

If you are more my friend than foe?" 

"Hunyadi, I was once your friend, 

But 'twas you who did that friendship end, 

And you hence forth I wish to know, 

That Roger is your deadly foe, 

If I could rise from off this lair, 

I'd make you all my wrongs repair. 

If e'er in spirit land we meet, 

A deadly foeman j-ou shall greet. 

Whose hate for you shall not decay, 

When million j-ears have past away. 

Where is the will 3'ou'll never know 

'Till hoary Ulrick's papers show. 

When dies my form, to dust is turn'd. 

And by the winds or nature spurn 'd. 

Perhaps I may return to earth. 

And cause another mortal's birth, 

But should you e'er that mortal meet, 

In him a foeman you will greet ; 

I curse you with my latest breath, 

And I will curse you after death." 



XXVIII. 



While thus old Roger fiercely spoke. 
Smiles o'er Hunyadi's visage broke, 
The parchment from his breast he drew, 
And wide its folds he open threw. 



416 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Then held it close to Roger's view. 

That pageant well old Roger knew. 

A while all silent and aghast 

His glaring sight lie on it cast. 

"This is the will then I suppose, 

And will to me all, all disclose." 

To this old Lea no answer made. 

But o'er his brow his hand he raised, 

As though his glaring eyes to shade 

From flickering lights that round him 

blazed, 
And one all piercing gaze he threw 
On Matilda who there met his view, 
And while on her his eye balls glow'd. 
With light they ne'er before had show'd — 
Through all his earthly bliss or woe, 
Twice to himself he muttered low, 
Betrayed, Betrayed, He said no more, 
An ashy hue his features wore, 
Far whiter than his hoary head, 
And aged Roger Lea was dead. 
Then one wild shriek Matilda gave, 
Which echoed through that rock}^ cave. 
On Roger's corpse her form she threw, 
And round his neck her arms she drew. 
Raised up his head from off its lair. 
Smoothed back his thin, long hoary hair 
From off that forehead pale as snow, 
Which did death's whitest shadows show, 
And with voice weakened with her woe, 
His name she muttered sad and low. 
Upon his breast she dropped her head. 
And fast her streaming tears she shed, 
While she lay weei>ing o'er the dead, 
In search of hoard the others sped. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNX. 41Y 

For it through all that cave the_y sought, 
And from its vaults vast treasure brought. 
Bright stones of every hue e'er seen, 
The scarlet, red, the purple, green, 
And precious gems of dazzling sheen, 
As ever decked the brow of queen. 
Broad massive urns of silver bright. 
That flashed around their glowing light, 
Carved with devices strange and old ; 
Huge, heavy sacks of shining gold, 
And solid bars of gleaming ore, 
Made up old Roger's mighty store. 
And all that treasure vast and grand 
That Lea had won on sea and lanr*. 
Had gain'd through craft and toil and fraud, 
And in his gloom}^ cave secured — 
Through sixty weary years and more, 
Those men from out that cavern bore. 
And unto Castle Flame that day 
They brought their glowing spoil away. 

XXIX. 

'Twas midnight ere those sturdy four 
Had from the cave ta'en all that store, 
Ere over wastes of ice and frost 
They had with all their treasure cross'd. 
Cold was the night, and high the blast. 
Though iLOt a cloud the sky o'er cast. 
And from the zenith o'er the snow 
The moon poured down her silver glow. 
Bright o'er glittering frost wreathed trees. 
Which to and fro waved to the breeze, 
O'er granite rocks that darkling gleam. 
O'er frosty floods and frozen stream, 
And broad ice covered o'er lagoon. 



418 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

xii cloudless beauty shone the moon. 
As for the last time those four men 
With treasure left the gloomy den, 
Which Lea, Bower of Bliss did name, 
And with them old Matilda came. 
Close by Hunyadi's side she strode 
Who helped her o'er the icy road ; 
Grief seem'd her spirit to o'er load, 
And sorrow all her being goad. 
At times a sob, or stifled groan, 
By her was on the night winds thrown, 
But forth her aged form was led, 
Till far they'd from the cavern sped. 
Till the}^ had gain'd a mountain's head — 
That looked down o'er tliat cavern dread. 
And here they rested for a space. 
While to the cave was turn'd each face. 
Though where they paused that cave to view 
'Twas bleak, and keen the night winds blew 
Those men felt not the tempest's sting, 
They thought but of one coming thing. 
One only thought each bosom knew. 
All else unnoticed past them flew, 
And while they here the cayern eyed, 
It's Christmas eve Hunj^adi cried. 
This is the night that brings the morn, 
On which the Saviour child was born. 
He who woe, death and hell has braved, 
That we poor sinners might be saved, 
Who for us want and sorrow bore, 
And felt all nature's anguish sore. 
Who on earth through misery trod, 
Who bore His cross o'er thorny sod. 
O'er burning sands, and broken clod, 
With feet vmsandled and unshod, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 419 

And felt for us the scourging rod, 

Though sole begotten child of God. 

Who felt each anguish, want and woe, 

That mortal flesh could ever know ; 

Who died and filled the gloomy grave, 

So he might us poor sinners save. 

Who for us wore the crown of thorn. 

And braved the nation's hate and scorn. 

Oh, hail, hail to the blessed morn — 

On which was Christ the Saviour born 1 

Oh, may that morn be ever blest, 

By every soul in mortal breast ! 

By every soul that ere on earth, 

Shall unto mortal man give birth I 

Hail, Christ my Saviour, King and Lord, 

Forever be Thy name adored ! 

Oh, teach my soul while here I live — 

My endless praises Thee to give 1 

Nor let it while it warms this mold. 

In love or faith for Thee grow cold. 

Teach it to sing Thy praise and worth, 

In tones to charm the sons of earth. 

Send inspiration from above. 

And teach me how to sing Tli}^ love. 

So all lost spirits I shall bring — 

Beneath the shadow of Th^- wing. 

Yes, make them turn for aye to Thee, 

And be of sin and darkness free. 

Hail Saviour, ere shall blush the morn, 

We greet as day that Thou wert born. 

I'll make these hills of ice and snow, 

Shake to their very base below, 

And will yon den of sin and woe 

To azure air in fragments blow. 

Long ere the beams of morning glow, 



420 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

I will the gloomy den o'erthrow, 
Within it now the fuses burn 
That shall to utter ruin turn 
Yon den of crime. 

XXX. 

He said no more, 
For vast their startled gaze before 
There flashed a broaa stupendous glare, 
Which did o'er hill and vallej' flare. 
Tall, taller shot the flames in air 
As though all hell was rising there, 
And came with it such deafening roar, 
Seem'd nature it to atoms tore ; 
And earth and trees and rocks apace — 
Were lifted into azure space, 
And where in air that cavern rose, 
Grim, horrid sights did it disclose. 
And as it rose from off its lair. 
In dread commotion shook the air. 
And all those hills beneath the shock 
Seem'd to and fro to reel and rock 
Like waters when by tempest stirred, 
Echo was after echo heard. 
Seemed mountain unto valley call'd, 
And valley unto mountain brawl'd, 
^ ' As if that moment disenthrall 'd 

From silence that had them appall'd, 
And held them 'neath its potent spell, 
As silent as the buried dwell. 
Died out the broad and ruddy flame, 
And dark all objects swift became. 
The trees and rocks that rose in air — 
Did black as tempest clouds appear, 
As back they rushed in swift career. 



THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 421 

And on the earth found solid hiir, 
Some flew afar o'er hill and dell, 
And with terrific tumult fell, 
Some on the frozen streams around 
Came crashing down with thunder sound, 
And as they fell with sudden blow 
On lakes of ice and frozen snow, 
All dazzling 'neath the moon's bright glow 
Their gleaming forms the splinters show, 
As in bright clouds through moonlit air 
The}' fly from ofl' their frosty lair. 
And far and wide through space repair, 
Then gleaming fall in swift career. 

XXXI. 

Thus, thus to air, from off the world — 
Roger's Bower of Bliss was hurl'd, 
Thus midst infernal flame and roar, 
It pass'd from use forever more. 
When rosy morning dawn'd, his men 
"Who dwelt afar o'ei hill and glen, 
Where stood the cave came crowding round , 
But nought save broken rocks they found, 
Huge trees uprooted from the ground, 
And all in utter ruin crowned, 
A waste of devastation vast, 
At which they silent stared aghast, 
With parted lips and glaring eyes. 
Bewildered with their fix'd surprise. 

XXXII. 

While flames from that explosion flow'd, 

Terrific from the cavern glow'd, 

All, round a moment's space they show'd, 

To all a rudd}^ hue bestow'd, 

And well revealed a moment's space, 



423 THE HEIR OP LYOLYNN. 

Unto his friends Hunyadi's face, 

Glad smiles o'er it they well could trace, 

While he gazed on that flaming place, 

That blazing flew o'er nature wide. 

Oh, what a joyous roar, he cried — 

To herald in the blessed mom 

On which was Christ the Saviour born ! 

As in mid air was hurl'd the cave, 

A piercing shriek Matilda gave. 

And sorrow shook her aged form. 

As shakes the leaf in mountain storm, 

Down sank she on the frozen snow 

Upon her breast her head -dropped low. 

As driven there by sudden blow, 

And muttered faint, "Ah, where will go 

This homeless wretch of want and woe ? 

Will none to me some mercy show ?" 

Around her fierce the night winds blew. 

On them her hoary tresses flew, 

Her face a wretched aspect wore, 

As ever fiend or mortal bore. 

And ne'er methinks did nature show — 

So grim a monument of woe, 

Such wrinkled face and haggard brow, 

Was never seen 'till then, I trow. 

XXXIII. 

Time sped on, a full month had flown. 
Since in the air the cave was blown. 
And a warm, cosy, cheerful bield, 
Did from the blasts Matilda shield. 
For while lying midst wind and snow 
Her abject misery and woe — 
Upon Hunyadi's feeling wrought, 
His soul for her with pity fraught, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 423 

Her form within his arms he caught, 
And here the wretcliea woman brought. 
Although a being all forlorn, 
And meet for mortal's hate and scorn, 
Of every human virtue shorn, 
Whose soul did every vice adorn, 
He left her not midst tempests' breath, 
For frost and blasts to freeze to death, 
But let this warm and cosy bield 
Her aged form from tempests shield. 
And well, right well it chanced for him, 
He saved that woman hoar and grim. 
For in that month through her alone 
His claim to boundless wealth was shown, 
And all his mother's stolen hoard 
Was in that month to him restored ; 
To fertile lands of surface broad — 
He swift was proved the rightful lord. 

XXXIV. 

'Twas rosy morn, the winds were still, 
Bright shone the sun o'er vale and hill, 
And white o'er hill and dell below — 
Was stretched earth's robe of fleecy snow ; 
Right merrily the church bells rung, 
A.nd o'er the hills their music flung, 
O'er distant vales their sound was borne — 
To hail Guy Harold's bridal morn. 
And to a church all statel}^ piled, 
Both young and old in columns filed. 
And at the foremost column's head 
With beaming brow the preacher led. 
Then next with souls with joy aflame 
lanthe and Hunyadi came, 
Her bright blue ej'es with rapture gleam'd, 



424 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And her fair face like seraph's beam'd, 

Next Harold trod, and at his side 

He led his blushing, promised bride. 

The rosy face of Alice wore 

The happiness her spirit bore, 

Her eyes aglow, her cheeks abloom, 

Did all of Beauty's charms assume. 

Next Brackliun and O'Connacame, 

Each led alonaj a blushinii dame. 

They reached the church, and up the aisle 

Did that gay throng in order file, 

And soon arovmd the altar kneel'd, 

While organs holy music peal'd, 

Stood at the altar side by side 

Guy Harold and his willing bride. 

Their prayers were said, their vows were 

made, 
The preacher's blessing on them'laid, 
When some one 'midst the rabble cried, 
Who's here to give away the bride ? 
Why's not Mosman at his daughter's side? 
That task, Hunyadi said, is mine, 
George Mosman did it me assign. 
In distant lands he's forced to stay 
Could not be here at all to-day — 
This joyous wedding to survey ; 
So I must give the bride away. 
The bride was given, the wedding done. 
And Harold's married life begun. 
When thus to the reverend man 
Hunyadi with a smile began. 
Two more loving pair we have here, 
Who would the bonds of marriage wear. 
Now I will call their names aloud, 
Arundel Bracklinn, Mary Cloud, 



THE HEIR OF ITOLYNN. 425 

James O'Conna, Eve Ethelred. 
Let them come forth and now be wed. 
They at the altar took their stand, 
The preacher join'd them hand in hand. 
Their prayers were made, their vows were 

said, 
And each gay, happy pair was wed. 
Tlien loud its tones the organ wakes, 
And while the holy music breaks, 
Tiie church to its foundation shakes, 
Away his bride each bridegroom takes. 
And high above the organ's sound, 
Which all sublimely floats around. 
Comes hoarse, and wild, and deep, and loud 

The blessing from the joyous crowd 

Upon each happy couple there. 

As they from out the church repair. 

May endless be their joy and weal. 

Void of all griefs poor mortals feel. 

And fate no woes to them reveal. 

But show for them eternal zeal. 

Oft such is heard amongst the throng 

As by the crowd they pass along. 

And homeward joyous wend their way — 

With brides that bloom like rosy May. 

Then from the church the crowd pours fast, 

And as they go the eye is east. 

On robes of every hue and shade 

That was ere yet by dyer made, 

There float robes of satin, velvet, silk, 

Some hue of blood and some of milk. 

Some are green, violet and blue, 

Yes, every shade e'er dyer knew. 

From that church, from that crowd the last, 

Hun3'adi and lanthe past. 



426 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Fair is the maid as any cliild, 
That ever j^et on nature smiled, 
Or did 3^on glowing sun survey, 
Yet, fairer waxes day by day, 

XXXV. 

Time sped on, and down in that dell, 
O'er Avhich looked that grim, lofty fell, 
Upon whose brow old Roger's bell — 
Was often rung at night to tell, 
A band of ruffian thieves 'twas time 
To arm for deeds of blood and crime. 
Whose brazen jaws and iron tongue — 
Has oft at solemn midnight rung, 
And over hill and valley flung, 
The sounds for which fierce robbers sprung 
From slumber off their dismal lair, 
And arm'd did to the cave repair. 
Only to receive orders there 
For robbery and murder drear. 
Which had bfen plann'd by Roger Lea, 
Or who e'er in his place left he, 
When in far realms he chanced to be, 
Or after plunrler sail'd the sea. 
Down through that dell a torrent flows, 
And o'er that flood a building rose. 
Which right across the waters spann'd. 
And this was for a sawmill plann'd. 
Deep down amidst the waters sheen 
A huge revolving wheel was seen. 
Both day and night it ceaseless turn'd 
Around by rushing waters spurn'd. 
And as around the wheel Mas spun. 
Through mighty logs the saw it run : 
Groves of hemlock, oak, cedar, pine, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 42 Y 

Which did that winding valley line, 
All tall and straight and comely wood, 
Beneath which once fierce robbers stood, 
Whomno laws of God or men e'er awed — 
Were into useful lumber sawed. 
And out of it were buildings framed — 
Which the names of factories claimed. 
Huge edifices broad and long, 
Grand buildings, stately high and strong. 
In which did men and children throng, 
And o'er their labor sang their song. 
Yea, at their useful labor wrought 
With happy soul and teeming thought, 
And these were owned by those four men 
Who had destroyed old Roger's den, 
Who had been friends and partners true 
Midst scenes of danger not a few. 
Men whom had fate together thrown, 
Had wrecked and on a headland blown, 
Who had as friends and partners toilVl 
Midst dangers that around them broilVl, 
From which most men with fear recoil'd 
Who rviffians' ruthless schemes had foil'd. 
Together dwelt those sturdj^ hearts — 
As partners in the useful arts, 
And all the shining hoard they won 
As they'd the ruffians' schemes undone. 
Which had in caves lain dead and waste, 
They in a useful channel placed. 
Let it no longer la^^ as void, 
But through its aid the}" men employed ; 
Yes, soon they brought unto that glen — 
Vast droves of children, women, men. 
Who earn'd through toil their daily bread, 
And useful lives in safety led. 



428 THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

And that self same huge brazen hell — 

Of Roger's ou the lofty fell, 

Still there remain'd upon that height, 

And daily morning, noon and night — 

Except on Sabbath da^s was rung, 

And fur o'er hills its music flung, 

And through the valleys poured its sound — 

To tell the thrifty toilers round 

Who wrought in shops or on the soil — 

'Twas time to rest or start their toil. 

And never from that vale, I ween — 

Was Bracklinn and O'Conna seen, 

Daily amongst their works they moved, 

True friends to all their toilers proved, 

By every toiler 'neath their sway. 

Right well and truly loAed were they ; 

With all they toil'd and lived in peace, 

And daily did their hoards increase. 

A joll^^, happy life they led. 

And well their mortal men they fed ; 

The fish, flesh, wine and healthy food, 

Which aye supplied their liungy mood, 

They to no other men denied, 

But saw that all were well supplied. 

For all who for them ever wrought — 

From them full pay that labor brought. 

True kindliness to all mankind 

Forever swayed their heart and mind, 

A frankness through their deeds they bore, 

Like the kind, candid looks they wore. 

Time flew on in its rapid flight. 

And sons and daughters blessed their sight, 

Soon, soon they saw within that glen — 

Their likenesses in maids and men. 

Many of these to each appeared, 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 429 

And were to useful mortals reared. 
From Harold and fair Alice too, 
Sprung sons and daughters not a few ; 
And soon the offspring of these men 
Found useful call within that glen, 
And they 'mongst one another found. 
Wives and husbands as time roll'd round 
And those four mortals lived to see 
Their children's children climb their knee, 
Saw them of every sorrow free 
Beneath the May-pole dance with glee, 
And lightly skip o'er rock and sod. 
These, these in time those mountain's trod. 
And search 'd for wealth in shape of ore 
That in vast mines those mountains bore. 
Iron, zinc, copper, tin and lead, 
Were largely through those mountains 

spread, 
And coal in pure and ample veins, 
Lay thick o'er all those broad domains. 
There sturdy labor swift they brought, 
And for these hidden treasures sought, 
And soon they made each hill and glen, 
Hum with its hives of bus}^ men : 
Factories, Furnaces and Mills 
Soon sent their smoke along the hills. 
Labor was plenty, j'et toil for all. 
What e'er their trade, what e'er iheir call, 
And ever}^ soul seem'd full of glee — • 
O'er i'ea,lms cnce ruled by Roger Lea. 

XXXYI, 

Five fleeting, joyous j-ears had fled — 
Since Harold and were Alice wed, 
And time within these j^ears had shed 



430 THE HEIR OF LYGLYNN. 

Bright beauty o'er lanthe's head. 

Has rear'd her to as fair a maid — 

As ever mortal eye surveyed, 

As ever trod upon this earth, 

Or 'mongst the human race had birth. 

Her fair round arms were white as snow, 

Or cloud on which the moonbeams glow, 

When full and <>rand she sheds her light. 

And turns them all to spotless white. 

And like the far off ocean's mist, 

When by the morning's sunbeams kiss'd, 

And turn'd to gold and amber glow, 

And gently waves as breeze's blow, 

So o'er her shoulders white as snow — 

Did her long golden tresses flow ; 

And hung o'er forehead grand and fair, 

As e'er was fann'd by morning air ; 

Waved o'er as fair and noble brow 

As ever nature saw 'till now ; 

Around a swan-like neck it flow'd, 

Where hues of whitest foam were show'd. 

And waved around a ruddy cheek — 

That did her perfect health bespeak ; 

The lily white and crimson rose 

Did there their mingled hues disclose, 

While ruby lips displayed beneath 

Her perfect rows of pearly teeth, 

And in her pure, clear, sparkling eyes 

Was seen the azui-e of the skies; 

And through them lookVl as pure a soul 

As ever wept o'er human dole, 

One all as gentle, good and kind 

As e'er to mortal flesh assigned. 

As ever God to nature gave, 

Or Christ the Saviour died to save. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN, 43 1 

That soared along the noblest walks, 
Where ever knowledge sings or talks 
Where ever holiness was known, 
Or only noble thoughts were grown. 
And never yet did limner paint 
The face of angel or of saint, 
That half so beautiful e'er seem'd 
As the all sweet lanthe's beain'd. 
And never human life blood warm'd 
Mortal that was more perfect form'd. 
She was erect and strong and tall, 
Agile, active and graceful all. 
And her deep, wide, fair, heaving breast, 
The ruddy health it own'd confessed. 
And ne'er a foot more firm and light — 
Has trod the earth by da}^ or night. 

XXXVII. 

'Twas rosy morn, the sky was fair, 
For lurked no clouds in azure air, 
The summer sun's effulgent form 
Had made the gentle breezes warm, 
And calm and bright fair nature lay — 
Beneath his all enliving raj^ ; 
And mongst her flowers moist with dew, 
That blushed to morning's glowing hue, 
And from their variegated bloom 
Fill'd all the air with sweet perfume, 
To breezes waved their bloomy spray, 
Young, fair lanthe bent lier v^aj. 
And to a bower wreathed with vines. 
Beside which towered stately' pines, 
Along a dew3', glowing sod — 
The beautiful lanthe trod. 
Early she had risen that morn, 



432 THE HSIR OF LYOLYNN. 

For had the news to her been borne, 
That one she loved with deathless flame, 
And who adored her just the same. 
Loved with love that knew no decaj^, 
Was to return to her that day, 
One long, tedious year had past — 
Since she on him had looked her last. 
Since with that one her soul did crave, 
The parting kiss she took and gave. 
That one Hunyadi was, 'twas he 
Whom on that day she hoped to see. 
'Twas just a year that ver}' morn, 
Since he had from her sight been torn. 
To distant lands he'd ta'en his way, 
To realms that o'er the ocean lay. 
But letters did to her conve}^ 
The news he would return that day, 
This news her soul with rapture fraught, 
Fill'd all her mind with happ}' thought. 
Towards that bower in haste she drew, 
For by that place full well she knew 
Must come the idol of her soul, 
He who did all her thoughts control, 
For it stood by the only road. 
Or path that led to her abode. 
In the bower she took her stand, 
A book of songs was in her hand. 
Sweet songs that had Hunyadi wrought, 
All teeming full of glowing thought. 
Songs that were sung all o'er the earth. 
Where ever human kind had birth, 
Where e'er the race or creed is known. 
Who love a song of stirring tone. 
That poet's songs in everj^ clime — 
Had won a praise and fame sublime ; 



TUE HETU OF LYOLYNN. 43^ 

And shall be smig each stirring rhyme — 

Through all the changing grooves of time. 

That book lanthe open threw, 

At it cast a lingering view, 

While thus aloud with sprightly tone 

Her voice was on the breezes blown. 

XXXVIII. 

" I'll think of thee at early morn 

Ere yet the sun shall rise, 

When his beams the world adorn, 

The stars chase from the skies, 

I'll think of thee at glowing noon, 

When earth is bright and gay, 

Think of thee Avhen the glowing moon 

At midnight sheds her raj^, 

I'll think of thee at day's decline, 

When stars begin to rise, 

And as I gaze upon their shine, 

I'll think upon thine eyes; 

I'll think of thee at dead of night. 

When rain is on the roof, 

When tempests rage with all their might. 

And morn is far aloof. 

I'll think of thee 'midst song and mirth. 

When pleasures revel free, 

And all the fairest forms of earth 

Would charm mj^ heart from thee. 

I'll think of thee when all alone 

On either land or sea, 

And when to the eternal throne 

In prayer I bend the knee. 

My thoughts to thee shall ever rise, 

Where e'er on earth I stray, 



434 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Let dark or starry be my skies, 
I'll think of thee all way." 

XXXIX, 

Here ceased her song, for on the sod 
A footstep close beside her trod, 
And on her ear distinct and clear 
A voice was heard she loved to hear, 
Yes, I will think of thee, it cried, 
When have all other feelings died ; 
When unto dust my form shall turn — 
With love for thee my soul shall burn. 
That love shall all my soul pervade. 
Nor through eternity shall fade. 
The maiden turn'd that voice to greet — 
It came from him she longed to meet. 
And on her love abashed and C03', 
Blushed like the rosy queen of joy, 
As round her all transcendent charms 
With joyous heart he threw his arms. 

XL. 

Why lengthen out a closing song 
That is already spun too long ? 
By telling all their tender words, 
That there were heard by list'ning birds, 
Which sat the while 'mongst bloomy spray 
And sang at times their sprightly la}'. 
As though they there rejoiced above 
The sofl and tender tones of love — 
Which from that bright and happy pair- 
Came oft upon the balmy air. 
Of wooing, here 'tis vain to tell, 
For mortals know the task too well, 
It's all the same however done, 
So that the maiden's heart is won. 



THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. 

Her lover's love to her is true, 
And ne'er will cause her love to rue. 
Is true to her while pleasures glow, 
And through all peril, pain and woe. 

Of wooing there are man}- styles 

As many as there are of isles, 

Each kind some maiden's heart beguiles 

Through it upon some lover smiles. 

The savage, or the brutal clown 

"Who often knocks his sweet-heart down, 

In her will find as fond a bride. 

As ever graced knight-errant 's side. 

The felon, or the out-law grim. 

Who never breathed a prayer nor hymn, 

Who woos with OHly curse and threat, 

The maid on whom his heart is set. 

Will win a bride whose spirit glows 

As anxious of his weal or woes 

As ever j-et beneath the sun 

The noblest song or poet won. 

But the wooing of this happy pair 

Was soft and sweet as balmy air. 

Which from off its flowery lair 

Doth unto fevered brows repair, 

While earth is bright with noon-day's ray 

And sweet ^olian organs play. 

And ere a fleeting month had flown 

Hymen had another wedding known 
A bride stood by Hunyadi's side, 
And fair lanthe was that bride. 



435 



436 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 



PREFACE. 



In the following Poems, which are all based on Historical 
oubjects, che Author speaks not in his own person, but in 
the persons of Ancient Minstrels, who know only what an 
Athenian, Spartan, Carthagenian, or an old British Saxon, born 
in those rude ages, may be supposed to have known, and who 
were not above the passions and prejudices of their age and 
nation. 

To these imaginary bards, blood-thirsty hatred for their ene- 
mies must be attributed. They delighted (as we may suppose,) 
to mingle in the clash of arms and the work of slaughter. For 
the}' were not men of song onl}-, but heroes of matchless physi- 
cal courage. Like ^schylus, Alfred the Great, Ossian, Regner 
Lodbrog and Harold Hardrada ; all of whom were the first poets 
of their day, as well as being the most formidable warriors of 
their age, who amidst the lull of battles sang their songs at the 
feast, or over the tombs of their friends and foes. Who sang 
their songs while marching to confront their enem}' , and shouted 
them amidst the din of battle. Often upon the prowess of their 
single arm hung the fate of an army. When the contending 
hosts were rolled together in the shock of battle and the air 
grew black with the clouds of dust and sand, raised from the 
earth by the rushing infantry and the tramp of charging cavalr^^; 
bright through the gloom, where raged the hottest fray, would 
beam forth the helmet of a bard, like a sunbeam through a cloud. 
Amidst the onslaught his sword would drip with the gore of 
foes the reddest. His spear, flashing through the conflict as 
lightning through a cj'clone, would pierce the deepest through 
plates of steel and breasts of men. His ponderous axe rise the 
fastest and descend the most terrific, cleaving at every blow 
morion or buckler in twain ; while his own he held over some 
fallen friend firm as a roof of rock, shielding him from the hiss- 
ing shafts and the flying missiles of battle. 

Not only amidst the shock of contending armies are these 
bards supposed to delight, nor take on themselves as their sole 
cause of existence, to be always instilling into the spirit of their 
age and nation sentiments of the highest bravery and contempt 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 437 



of death. They breathed into the races a reverence for their 
gods. Taught them that all human glory came direct from some 
Supreme Being, and was unstable without divine support. Nor 
does history show us a real bard that was an atheist, whereever 
existed any knowledge of a God. They delighted in the 
sublimity of nature. They were the most prominent characters 
in times of peace. Their advice was eagerly sought and strictly 
adhered to by their kings and potentates. Through tliem the 
arts came to life, grew up and flourished. Through them the 
art of bringing together different races of mankind under one 
ruler and keeping them in harmony and prosperit}' was taught, 
instead of discord and faction. Though in times of war they 
bieathed through the ranks a ferocious spirit, in peace it was the 
reverse. Through them was war declared and through them was 
peace regained. Through them pure love, esteem and reverence 
for woman was breathed into the spirits of the races of men. 
Through them she was made the pride and glory of the j-outhful 
warrior, the glowing star that guided him to renown, the sun- 
light of the soul of both young and old. For her cities were 
sacked and given to flame and slaughter. For her weal no dan- 
ger was considered too great ! no deed too desperate 1 She was 
the iris that glorified the troubled spirit of man. Like the rain- 
bow that spreads its arch across the world and divinely beams 
over the rage of the storm below. 

Palmyra, New-Jersey, 1851. 



438 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 



THE BATTLE OE MARATHON, 

A lay sung at Athens, about time Xerxes 
invaded Greece. 



Artaphernes and proud Datis 

Came spreading terror round ; 

O'er all the bright ^Egean isles. 

Unto their furthest bound. 

Fast flock'd their conquering files, 

Razed cities to the ground. 

And to Euboea's rocky coast, 

They led their vast array. 

By them Eretria's towers 

A heap of ashes lay. 

Like swarms of locusts o'er the lands. 

The wasting hordes pour'd on ; 

O'er Attica's plains they march 'd. 

And camp'd at Marathon. 

II.. 

Wide o'er the dusky plains that night 
Their countless tents were spread, 
And far around the solid earth 
Was rocked beneath their tread. 
And loud upon the midnight air 
Their^savage paeans rang, 
As around their glowing fires. 
The crowded thousands sang. 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 439 

III. 

By Pentelicus' height that night 

All our army lay, 

And in silence kept their watch, 

Until the East grew gray. 

Then each Grecian bosom burn'd 

Impatient for the fray ; 

Oft they grasped the steel as they watch 'd 

For beams of coming day. 

IV. 

Proud and majestic as a god, 
Upsoar'd the Eastern beam. 
And robed with glorious light 
Mountain, plain and stream. 
'Twas then with secret dole we saw 
The foemen's mighty host ; 
For miles around it hid the ground, 
And throng'd the ocean's coast. 
Far along the trembling fields, 
As human eye could scan, 
In bright and terrible array, 
Was stretched their mighty van. 
And to the glowing beam of mom, 
So bright their armor shone, 
It seem'd a flood of fire waved o'er 
The plains of Marathon. 
And o'er that blazing field of steel, 
Ten thousand banners stream 'd ; 
Aloft in air like sheets of gold, 
The haughty ensigns gleam'd. 



In the midst on a lofty mound, 
Within their shining car, 
Datis and Artaphernes sat, 



440 liAYS OP ANCIFNT TIMES. 

Viewing the ranks afar. 

Two score thousand hardy spear-men 

"Were marshall'd on their right, 

On their left two score thousand men 

With hills and axes bi'ight. 

And in their glittering rear 

Ten thousand horsemen rode, 

And foremost of that great array, 

The countless archers strode. 

And with them came Hippias, 

Proud Athens' Ki.ig of yore, 

Cased in steel the exiled tj-rant strode 

Right haughtily before. 

To make a feast for Grecian birds, 

lie led on his haughtj' train. 

And of that mighty Persian host, 

But few went home again. 

VI. 

Meanwhile the brave Athenians 

Their sturdy power show'd, 

With sword and spear and helm and shield 

Each serried phalanx glow'd. 

A thousand brave Plataeans came 

And joined the gallant band ; 

Bringing with them a stern resolve, 

To die or keep their land. 

Old Greece, I ween, has seldom seen, 

So brave a band of men. 

As there array'd to meet their foes. 

In all but thousands ten. 

Bold and intrepid warriors, 

Each gloried in the strife, 

Where he could rush to guard his land. 

And for her yield his life. 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 441 

VII. 

There shone all arm'd from head to heel 

Aristides the Just ; 

Well skilled was he in stubborn fra}-, 

To give the deadly thrust, 

A matchless chief was he as e'er 

In battle harness stood, 

Famed throughout the isles of Greece for 

Deed of peerless hardihood. 

And by his side that chief of pride 

Themistocles was seen, ' 

Than his of all the Grecian band, 

There was no sword more keen. 

And there to war, the old and hard}' 

Callimachus strode. 

His beard white as Olympus' snows 

O'er his broad breast-plate flow'd. 

"With stately pace and smiling face 

He came to his last field ; 

Upon his gigantic shoulders 

Bright shone a five fold shield. 

And o'er his glittering helmet 

High waved a sable plume ; 

In his right hand he held the brand, 

That oft had filled a tomb. 

He left liis name enroll'd with fame 

And deeds of solid worth, 

So bards of coming times might 

With his prowess charm the earth. 

And by him shone Gynaegeirus, 

Euphorion's war-like son, 

Who oft for Greece in times of strife 

Had deeds of valor done. 

With them came Ameinias, 
The daring and the strong ; 



442 LAYS OP ANCIENT TIMES. 

And with them stately ^schylus, 

The bard of martial song. 

There to«ver-like Stasileus, 

All clad in armor strode, 

But high above them all the helm 

Of Miltiades glowed. 

As the god of war when to strife, 

He guides his own dark wing, 

So dazzling glowed, so fiercely strode, 

Proud Chersonesus' King. 

But, oh, what muse could name them all 

The heroes of that time, 

Or tell all the deeds of prowess 

They wrought for their own clime. 

These and all our bravest 

Were in the van arrayed, 

And with their ample bucklers 

A wall of steel they made. 

VIII. 

With banners spread and measured tread. 

Fast towards the foe we drew ; 

Loud was the clang of sword and targe, 

And loud the warhorns blew. 

But when the base Hippias was seen 

Before the Persian van, 

A cry of "down with base Hippias," 

Through all the army ran. 

And then right straight a deadly hate. 

Fired the Grecian throng. 

And forth upon their foes they rush'd 

Like mountain torrent strong. 

IX. 

Still as a mighty forest, 
When not a zephyr blows, 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 443 

So still the Persian army stood, 

To meet their rushing foes. 

But when we met them, from the host 

A mighty shout arose ; 

And fast the hissing arrows came 

From fort^- thousand bows. 

Eight fast, and thick they flew in clouds. 

And darken 'd o'er the field ; 

Still shower on shower they came, 

And rung on helm and shield ; 

But through the storm we rush'd 

And back the bowmen bore. 

And many a gallant archer, 

Writhed in dust and gore. 

And East and West they fled like sheep. 

When howling wolves pursue ; 

And to his ranks of bristling spears 

The base Hippias flew. 



X. 



" Now on, my gallant men," he cried, 

" Rush on them with the spear, 

Charge on those haughty Greeks with me 

And they shall fly like deer," 

Forth rnshed the spearmen in a mass, 

With mutters fierce and dread ; 

Ensigns wildly o'er them waved 

Earth shook beneath their tread. 
But like the whirlwind on their van 
The warlike Grecians dash'd ; 
And as the furious armies met, 
Bossy shields by thousands crash'd. 
And swords and spears to splinters went, 
As that fierce battle grew, 
And all along the dreadful van, 



444 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

Like sparks in air thej^ flew. 

So together at murky midnight, 

Upon the stormy deep, 

By contending tempests driven, 

Two mighty billows leap. 

As they meet high to heaven, 

Is dash'd the sparkling foam, 

And all the wraiths of ocean shriek, 

Above their warring home. 

So the angry armies met, 

And blow and deadly thrust, 

And shriek and groan, and battle cry, 

Roar'd midst the clouds of dust. 

XI. 

While to and fro the battle rock'd 

And piled the field with slain ; 

Through the thick fight to Hippias, 

Stasileus rush'd amain. 

" Now die," he said, " thou cursed wretch, 

Thou traitor to thy land," 

With that right through Hippius heart 

He drove his gory brand. 

One moment stood Hippias, 

And whirled his blade in air, 

And down through Stasileus' neck 

It went in full career, 

Fast from each hero's ghastly wound 

The blood gushed warm and red, 

And like blasted mountain pines 

Those chieltains fell down dead. 

xn. 

Then Callimachus with a shout 
Straight 'midst the Persians went ; 
And like reeds before the tempest 



• LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 445 

The foes to earth he sent. 

Ay, many a stately Persian 

By his good broad-sword bled ; 

And o'er the slain Stasileus, 

He threw a pile of dead. 

But thicker still the foeman 

Encompass 'd him around ; 

His shield they pierced, his helm they cleft, 

And roll'd it on the ground. 

And towards him flew a storm of darts 

That gave him many a wound, 

Then forward on his shield he bent, 

And bled at every vein ; 

And dead, but on his feet he stood, 

Supported by the slain. 

Unclosed in death his eyes still glow'd 

Like coals of living fire ; 

He grasped in his hand his broken brand, 

All smear'd with gore and mire. 

About his ample shoulders 

The wind toss'd his hoary hair, 

Like some tall snow-capp'd rock he stood 

Among that carnage drear. 

XIII. 

Meanwhile, most of the Grecian army 

In two strong wings had form'd. 

And on both of the Persian flanks 

With utmost force had storm'd. 

But while we thundered on their flanks, 

And dyed the fields with gore, 

Backward fast our centre line 

The Persian vanguard bore. 

As a strong and stately ship 

With all her masts and sails, 



446 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. » 

Whose shining prow cuts boldly on 

Through billows and through gales, 

Though oft her huge and groaning sides, 

The foaming surges hide, 

Yet headlong she dashes on 

Amidst the boiling tide. 

So the Persian army came 

Driving through our van ; 

And fast across the dismal moor 

The blood in torrents ran. 

XIV. 

Then just at that dreadful hour 

There came a mighty sound, 

As if ten thousands trumpets blew ; 

And tempests rose around. 

O'er the Grecian van descended 

A cloud all streaked with flame ; 

And as it neared the gory ground, 

From it two figures came. 

Two figures as of men, who strode 

To Aristides' side; 

Round the bod}^ of the foremost 

Was wrapped a lion's hide, 

And a strong and might}^ club 

He shook in his right hand ; 

Gloomy as night the other looked. 

And bore a shield and brand. 

And louder than the roar of war 

Their voices rose on high. 

" Forward, ye Greeks, upon 3^our foes, 

And conquer them or die." 

Then out spoke brave Aristides, 

" Say, who ye strangers be ? 

For ye are gods, not mortal men, 

That all too well we see." 



LAYS OP ANCIENT TIMES. 447 

XV. 

" Mortals call me Hercules, I freed 

The world of monsters fell ; 

And by Eurystheus' order 

Tore Cerberus from hell. 

From high Olympus mount just now, 

I view'd the unequal fray ; 

And for my own dear native land 

I come to fight to-day." 

XVI. 

"And I am he called Theseus, 
Proud Athens' king of old ; 
I slew the dread Minotaur, 
And the Phoea fierce and bold. 
And took fair Hippodamia 
From the strong Centaur's hand ; 
And now I come with Hercules, 
To fight for my own land." 

xvn. 

So answered those two mighty goda 

And rushed upon the foes ; 

And from all the Grecian army 

A shout of joy arose. 

And as rolling flood of fire 

By tempests bore along ; 

So on the mighty Persian mass 

Rush'd on the Grecian throng. 

And 'midst the thickest carnage, 

With Theseus by his side, 

Was seen that god that bore the club 

And wore the lion's hide. 

And fast the Persian footmen 

In mud and gore were thrown ; 

And loud o'er all the field was heard 



448 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

Their shriek and dying groan. 

And one fiery charge we made, 

And from the seas of goi-e, 

We bore the foes both horse and man, 

Three furlong's length and more. 

XVIII. 

And just then ten thousand horsemen 

Rushed from the Persian left ; 

The plain beneath them groaned and shook. 

As though by earthquakes cleft. 

Darker than night the clouds of dust 

From earth to sky arose ; 

So o'er the Arabian land 

Comes the black storm of dust and sand, 

When the fell whirlwind blows. 

Then shouted Cimon's god-like son, 

" Now haste, my spearmen, form, 

Be ready every Grecian spear, 

To meet yon roaring storm." 

XIX. 

At once two thousand spears were set, 

Two thousand men crouched low ; 

And on them like the mighty shock. 

Of ocean plunging on a rock, 

Dash'd on the foaming foe. 

To earth the foremost ranks were sent, 

Down went both horse and man ; 

And form'd a ghastly pile of dead, 

Along the Grecian van. 

Onward fast their followers came, 

Staggering o'er their dead, 

But ere they reached the Grecian spears. 

Like a flock of startled hares, 

They turn'd and wildly fled. 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 449 

And the footmen and the horsemen, 

And all the Persian might, 

Before us towards the ocean fled, , 

In one wild stream of flight. 

They flew like tlie foam of ocean 

Before the howling gale ; 

And on their rear the arrows rain'd 

Thicker than winter hail. 

By thousands unto the ocean 

And towards the reedy fen, 

In wild confusion fast they fled 

To 'scape the Grecian men. 



Then by thy sword brave ^schylus. 
The Persian blood did flow ; 
And by thee, Ameinias, 
Slain was many a foe. 
And thy good blade Aristides 
With foemen's gore was dj-ed ; 
And on went proud Themistocles 
And slaughtered by th}' side. 
And before his conquering host 
The son of Ciraon shone ; 
But like two consuming fii-es 
Tliose two strong gods flew on. 
And fast fierce Gynffigeirus rushed 
O'er ghastly piles of dead, 
And many a head and helmet 
Was mashed beneath his tread 

XXI. 

Datis and Artaphernes 
In their car before him sped, 
And safe within their stntely ship 
Those haughty Persians fled. 



450 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

Then headlong plunged the steel-clad Greek 

Within the swelling tide, 

And fast unto the vessel swam, 

And mounted up its side. 

As he neared the deck his right hand 

From off his' wrist was cleft ; 

Ponderous fell the axe again, 

And sever'd off his left. 

But still unto the vessel's side', 

The Greek hung by his teeth ; 

'Till fell the axe once more and sent him 

Within the flood heneath. 

XXII. 

Then terrific grew the slaughter, 

Along the dismal shore, 

And the heaving waves of ocean 

Were red with human gore. 

Many ships we set on fire. 

All crowded full with foes, 

And as the wind bore them from land. 

The wail of death arose. 

xxrn. 

And seven ships we took, all fiU'd 

With marble and wath gold. 

And man}' w^orks of Persian art. 

Right glorious to behold. 

Then shouted Cimon's daring son, 

'• Ho ! call the gods to see ; 

Those gods, who with us fought to-day 

To keep this nation free." 

Witli haste we looked o'er all the fen, 

And searched along the shore ; 

But by all the Grecian army 

Those gods were seen no more. 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 45^ 

Which way, or when those gods had gone 

No Grecian tongne could tell ; 

But some one said a cloud had been ; 

(A cloud all dreadful to be seen, 

Fill'd with horrid sounds, and robed with 

flame, 
Like that in which those heroes came ;) 
Beside Macaria's well. 
And swifter than a flash of light, 
With thunders dread, it took its flight 
Towards high Olympus' fell. 

XXIV. 

Then rose from all the Grecian host, 

A shout that rent the sky. 

And out spake brave Aristides, 

" Now all ye Grecians hie. 

And thank those gods who fought to-day, 

And made your foemen fly. 

And unto those eternal gods 

Let's build a stately tower; 

And may they evermore be near, 

To aid us with their power. 

And unto fair Nemesis 

We'll build an ample dome; 

And may she still redress our wrongs, 

Through all years that o'er us roam." 

XXV. 

Fast o'er all the Grecian lands 
The news of triumph spread ; 
And to hail their conquering youths 
The maids from Athens sped. 
And hoary men, and matrons old, 
Pour'd fast from out the towers ; 
And before the conquering Ijost, 



452 LAYS OP ANCIENT TIMES. 

The road was strew'd -with flowers. 

And loud the songs of triumph rung 

Through Athens all that night, 

In honor of those valiant Greeks 

Who broke the Persian might. 

Who trod the Mede in gore and mud, 

And broke the Lydian spear ; 

And made the plains with foeman's blood 

Look like a gor^^ mere. 

XXVI. 

So terrific was the battle, 

That memorable day ; 

So thick within the swamps of blood 

The slaughter'd foemen lay ; 

So thick along the dismal shore, 

And in the ghastl}^ fen, 

Were strew'd in mire and in gore 

The limbs of Persian men ; 

That now at night, when storms arise 

And sweep o'er Marathon, 

The peasant swears the noise he hears 

Of armies rushing on, 

In eager madness to engage, 

And spread their carnage round ; 

And well he hears the crash of spears, 

And swords on helms resound. 

He hears the rall}^ charge and rout, 

He hears the warhorn's tone, 

He hears the slayers' haughty shout, 

And hears the d^-ing groan ; 

Mid Cimmerian gloom they sound. 

But when the East grows gray, 

Then from the field gigantic forms 

Arise and glide away. 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 453 

XXVII. 

And now again the Persian hordes 

To Greece are marching on ; 

So rise ye sons of Greece once more, 

And give them what they got of yore, 

At crashing Marathon. 

Yea, rise, arise, ye sons of Greece, 

Arise ye one and all; 

Take sword in hand and guard your land; 

To war, the trumpets call. 

Come gather fast, ye gallant Greeks, 

Think of your old renown ; 

Haste and form the glittering van 

And tread proud Xerxes down. 

For now within old Greece there are 

Ten thousand men and more ; 

Who for her right till death will fight 

And wade through swamps of gore. 

And never shall one inch of Greece 

By victor foes be trod ; 

Till every Greek lies cold in death, 

And blood has drenched the sod j 

And long as strong Alpheus sends 

His waters to the sea, 

And long as bless 'd Olympus stands, 

All Greece shall still be free. 



454 LAYS 01' ANCIENT TIMES. 



THE BATTLE OF THERMOPYL^, 

A lay sung forty-five years after that 
battle, at a feast held in the tower erected 
in memory of Leonidas at Sparta. 



Xerxes, Persia's haughty king, 

One lovely morning swore, 

That Dai'ius' mighty name 

Should suffer shame no more ; 

Marathon's glorious battle 

Rushed before his sight ; 

He thought how Cimon's son had put 

The Persian hosts to flight. 

He would avenge proud Sardi's fall 

And dye all Greece with gore ; 

And bring her 'neatli great Persia's rule, 

By Mithra's beams he swore. 

At night he said beside his bed 

A stately warrior stood ; 

With armor smear'd o'er with gore, 

In hand a broad-sword good. 

" Go lorth, go forth, my son," he said, 

" And never think of peace, 

Till thou hast bowed beneath thy 3'oke 

The haughty isles of Greece." 

So he spake, and then SAvift bent down 

And kissed the monarch's face ; 

And with a dreadful clang of steel 

The gory phantom fled apace. 



LAYS OP ANCIENT TIMES. 45.") 

II. 

So forth his heralds fast he sent 
To tower, to town, and glen, 
To sound the stormy note of war, 
And call up all his men. 
Round Ecbatana's towers 
The warlike thousands throng'd ; 
And Xerxes was o'erjoyed to see 
Such hosts to him belong'd. 



Abrocomas, Ariomardus, 

Darius' warlike sons ; 

A hundred thousand warriors led, 

From where Choaspes runs. 

From where Laodicea's towers 

Look o'er the reedy fen ; 

Arzanes and Bardine the bold, 

Led forth ten thousand men. 

To win a kingdom in old Greece 

They joined proud Xerxes' ranks ; 

And left their countless flocks to roara 

On sweet Moeander's banks. 

Fair Thasis and Choas, the loves 

Of all proud Antioch's maids, 

To join the rugged sons of war 

Left Daphne's laurel shades. 

IV. 

From Bactriana's sunny fields 
The thousands came amain. 
And rocky Paropamisus 
Pour'd forth his hardy train. 
And frum Cossea's fertile realm 
Came mightj^ hordes of slaves ; 
And many were the savage bands 



456 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

That poured from Taurus' caA^es ; 

And Hyrcania's mighty realm 

Sent forth her warlike clan ; 

And the fishers left their nets to dry 

Upon the shores of Yan. 

Fast from Sc^'thia's distant lands 

The hosts came pouring in ; 

They came from Zagrus' snow-clad hills, 

And from far Moschin. 

And from Niphates' hoary crags, 

Where wolves at midnight howl, 

And from Arbages' winding hanks, 

Where bears and tigers prowl. 

And from Chalybonitis 

The land of figs and wine ; 

From Faz, where Anacondas hiss, 

As horrid coils they twine. 

They came from Phacusa's towers, 

And from Persicum's fen, 

And all the lands 'neath Persian rule 

Sent up their hordes of men. 

V. 

His footmen were one million 
Eight hundred thousand men ; 
His horsemen were eighty thousand 
Eleven score and ten ; 
His ships of war three thousand 
Eight hundred and two score ; 
And these by his high command 
A million warriors bore. 

VI. 

With his host were throngs of women. 
And mighty herds of kine ; 
Flocks of sheep, and laden asses, 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 45*7 

And roaring droves of swine. 

And "witli them came the stately camel, 

That groan \1 beneath its load ; 

And the dread monster beasts that shook 

The strong eartli as they strode. 

The beasts that have between their tusks 

The serpent for an arm, 

That rush upon the serried hosts 

Spreading slaughter and alarm. 

VII. 

And for this mighty multitude. 

To gain the Tracian shore ; 

He bridged the foaming Hellespont 

With trees and vessels o'er. 

Seven long days and nights it took 

His beasts and mighty host, 

Though they were flogged and scourged 

along, 
To gain tjie Tracian coast. 

VIII. 

To them proud Doriscus yielded, 
With all her warlike race ; 
Halmydessus threw wide her gates, 
And all the towns of Thrace. 
Like a deluge o'er the lands they pour'd 
Nor spared they shrub nor tree, 
Nor house, nor tower, from Hebrus 
To the bounds of Thessaly. 

IX. 

Meanwhile, throughout the isles of Greece, 
The news of w^ar had spread ; 
The sons of Athens and Sparta, 
Were armed from heel to head. 



458 . LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

And Thespia and Plataea 
To aid them their warriors sent ; 
Vainly to them the Persian lieralds 
For earth and water went. 

X. 

Far as Laconia's rocky coast, 
Corcj^ra sent her fleet ; 
Argos refused to lend her aid, 
So did the isle of Crete. 
And man}^ a warlike city 
Basely did its aid refuse ; 
And idly stood with all his host 
Gelon of Syracuse. 

XI. 

All the wisest men of Athens 

Then met in high debate ; 

To choose a leader for their host, 

And ruler for their state. 

And loud throughout the crowded halls 

*' Epicydes" they cried. 

Epicydes ! Epicydes 1 

The ample roofs replied. 

XII. 

Then out spake brave Themistocles, 

'' Give ear to what I say, 

We must choose a chief, whom the state 

And army can obey. 

Not a man like Epicydes, 

Who can be bought or sold ; 

But a chief indeed, an able chief, 

And proof 'gainst Persian gold. 

Any sailor can guide a ship, 

When the air is calm and warm ; 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 459 

But it takes an able captain 

To steer her through the storm. 

So in times of great peril, a state 

Must have an able chief; 

Unless she soon will sink, o'erwhelm'd 

In ruin and in grief. 

So before you choose a leader, 

Right "well your wisest scan ; 

But take ye not Epicydes, 

Nor any reckless man. 

XIII. 

" First call home all the banish'd lords, 

With them, Aristides ; 

And if ye find no abler man, 

Then choose Themistocles. 

Athenians, we must put aside 

All rancor, and all hate ; 

And like brothers toil together. 

And prop the sinking state. 

Make me your leader, and I pledge, 

My lands, my life, my head, 

Each Persian ship that faces us. 

Shall sink to ocean's bed. 

Let's give to Eurybiades the fleet, 

The army follow at my will ; 

And all the realms around shall know, 

Greece is her mistress still." 

JLIV, 

*' Good is thy counsel, Themistocles," 
So all the wise men spake, 
And all the people straight came forth, 
To him their leader make. 



460 LAYS PF ANCIENT TIMES. 

XV. 

While thus within the crowded halls 

Was clamor and wild din, 

All pale with rage and haste and fear 

A scout came rushing in ; 

" To arms," he cried, " to arms, ye Greeks, 

Make ready with all haste, 

For Xerxes' hordes are marching on, 

Laying the country waste," 

XVI. 

Then out spake brave Leonidas, 
Sparta's glorious king, 
'' Themistocles, to Euba?a 
Haste all thy forces bring. 
And with thy ships keep off the foe. 
And chase them through the sea ; 
I with three hundred Spartans 
Will guard Thermop3^1ae. 

XVII. 

•' Though 'gainst each thousand of the foe 

We send a little band, 

Yet it is all that we can give. 

To guard our native land. 

For if all Greece's children 

Were gathered in one host ; 

They would not equal half the foes, 

Now upon our coast. 

But how can Greeks die better, 

Than for the land that gave them birth. 

To save the altars of their land. 

Their wives and all their cherish'd band, 

That cluster round each hearth. 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. . 401 

XVIII. 

" Now be this our firm resolve, 
Where e'er our blood be shed ; 
Where e'er we fall, let it be 
Ou piles of Persian dead. 
So when to Pluto's dismal realm, 
Each Grecian soul shall go, 
Each shall drive before his path 
A crowd of shades below." 

XIX. 

So spake our glorious king, 

And braced his armor on ; 

And soon with him all cased in steel, 

Three hundred warriors shone. 

All Lacedaemon's bravest sons, 

Had gathered in that throng ; 

There Dieneces, Eurytus glow'd 

And Agron bold and strong. 

And there upon his haughty steed, 

That pawed the dust}^ field. 

The brave Aristodemus sat. 

Behind his ample shield. 

But far before that proud array 

The king of Sparta rode ; 

And by his side Menestheus, 

A sable steed bestrode. 

XX. 

By the eternal gods, it was 

A glorious sight to see ; 

That glittering warlike band. 

Riding towards Thermopylae. 

The plumes waved right gayly o'er, 

Their helms ot gold and steel ; 

The horses neigh 'd, the trumpets bray'd. 



d62 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

With many a deafening peal. 

And many a haughty banner 

Was o'er their heads unfurl'd ; 

And loud the clang of armor rang, 

And on their chargers hurl'd — 

Swift as the thunderbolts great Jove 

Sends flying o'er the "world. 

As like a blast they onward pass'd, 

By hamlet, tower and town, 

Young lads and maids came forth and 

cheer'd, 
And men with age bent down. 

XXI. 

But paused not Lacedsemon's king, 

Nor paused his warriors true, 

Until right at Thermop^dse, 

Their chargers' reins they drew. 

Then straight they vaulted down with haste, 

And drank from Chytri's rill ; 

Chytri, that chr3^stal stream that flows, 

From J^]ta's holy hill. 

^ta, from whence in da3^s of yore, 

Great Jove in wrath had hurl'd, 

His furious thunderbolts, 

And rocked the solid world. 

And taught affrighted sons of earth 

His dreadful rage to know ; 

And Pluto trembled on his throne 

In his drear realms below. 

XXII. 

Now while the sons of Sparta 
Stood in the narrow way, 
Marching along the coast they saw 
Proud Persia's vast array. 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 463 

And nearer still, and nearer, 

Unto the pass they drew ; 

And fiercer still, and fiercer, 

Their dreadful clamors grew, 

Two thousand trumpets sounded loud 

Just as that great array ; 

With serried shields and livelled spears 

Halted at the narrow way. 

XXIII. 

Forth from the crowd two warriors sprung, 

To earth their weighty spears they flung, 

And loud their brazen armor rung. 

As dash'd upon the plain. 

And with snow-white flags in their hands 

Right on they came amain. 

Unto our bold king the^^ came, 

To him a message bore ; 

A message from their haughty king. 

Who thought mountains from his path 

should spring. 
And in the sea their summits fling. 
And storms for him should cease to sing, 
And ocean cease to roar. 
He thought to stay time's restless wing, 
And rule each mute and living thing ; 
And thought the isles of Greece to bring 
Beneath base Persian law, 
And his proud name alone should ring 
O'er Greece eternal awe. 

XXIV. 

Before our king the foremost knelt, 
And thus his message said ; 
But as he knelt and as he spoke, 
He shook from heel to head. 



464 LAYS OP ANCIENT TIMES. 

" Persia's monarch bids thee 3'ield to him 

And be his friend for a3'e ; 

And all the isles of Greece shall be 

Beneath thy kingly sway. 

All of them to thee he'll freely give, 

Though AA'eal or woe betide ; 

If thou wilt pass beneath his .yoke, 

And own him thy lord and guide. 

For he seeks not the sons of Greece 

To slaughter and destro}^ ; 

And if to him ye yield up tamely. 

Ye '11 peace and life enjo}' ; 

But if 3'e'll not obe}' his wish, 

And work his sovereign will, 

This narrow pass he will right soon 

With Grecian corpses fill. 

This message bear I from my king, 

To whom all nations bow ; 

Say, will it please thee king of Sparta, 

To send thy answer now ?" 

XXV. 

*' Go back, and tell thy haughty king," 

The dauntless Spartan said, 

" We Spartans scorn to be his friends. 

Of him we have no dr^ ad. 

Tell him, thci-e is no mortal man. 

Can mount the Grecian throne, 

Unless aided b}' the sons of Greece, 

And by the gods alone. 

Tell him, we're not a land of slaves. 

Like those base hordes he rulec ; 

We are a race of free-born men. 

And bred in martial schools. 

We scorn his gifts, we scoi'n his love, 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES.. ^gc 

And hear, if he will stay 

On Greece's coast, his countless host 

Shall be the vulture s prey." 



XXVI. 



He ceased, and the other herald 

Bowing, made reply, 

" Should we to the king tl)y answer bear, 

Thou shall most surely die. 

If thou wouldst act a wise man's part. 

Though thou may 'st show a coward's heart, 

Yield up thy arms to Persia's king, 

And earth and wator o-ive • 

Rouse not his dreadful wrath, ifthou 

Another day wouldst live." 



XXVII. 



Fierce on his speech the Spartan broke. 

With eyes like coals of fire ; 

His blood rushed boiling through his veins, 

And shook his form with ire. 

" Fly, away to thy servile king. 

Go, thou base cringeing slave • 

Nor think that thy insulting tongue 

Can ever fright tlie brave. 

Hence, fly with speed, or thou shalt feel, 

The deadly force of Spartan steel. 

Go, tell that haughty fool thy king, 

Hence from Greece his hosts to bring, 

Back to their native strand • 

His threats, his tortures, I defv, 

All my warriors and I Mill die, 

Before he wins this land. 

What, we, disgrace our native earth, 

And those dear forms that gave us birth, 

With aught of dastard fear? 



466 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

By heaven, no, this arm shall throw 

Thy king for clogs to tear. 

Long as Leonidas shall live, 

My country shall be free ; 

!Nor shall ^\e earth and water give 

To tj'rants such as he. 

Tell him to come and take my arms, 

If he my arms doth craA'e ; 

But if the despot dare come forth, 

He or I shall fill a grave." 

XXVIII. 

Fast, fast, each Persian herald flew 

To tell the king his tale ; 

And when the haughty despot heard. 

He trembled and turn'd pale. 

And with a low, deep murmuring 

That mighty Persian mass, 

Drew back, and camped upon the moor 

Before the narrow pass. 

XXIX. 

The shades of night came hasting down. 
And wrapped the hills in gloom ; 
But the Persian army lay that night 
As silent as the tomb. 
And in the pass the Spartans stood. 
And watched their sleeping foe ; 
For with their countless camp fires 
The midnight sky did glow. 

XXX. 

Twice rose in all his loveliness, 
Yon Persion god, the sun ; 
And twice beneath the "Western waves 
His daily course he run ; 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 467 

Yet by neither hostile army 
Was deed of battle done. 

XXXI. 

The third morn came and ^ta 

That da}^ a sight did see, 

Such as he never saw before, 

And ne'er again will be. 

For marching to the narrow pass 

The Persian squadrons came ; 

The valleys echoed far and wide 

Unto their wild acclaim ; 

And loud their gilded armor rang 

That shone 'neath the sun like flame. 

XXXII. 

" Now on, now on, my gallant men," 

So spake the Spartan king, 

" Let's to the birds and dogs of Greece 

These vile intruders fling. 

If the gods have doomed our fall, 

And us the foe o'erwhelm, 

Then let us all like Spartans die, 

And sup in Pluto's realm." 

XXXIIT. 

So he spake and drew his sword 
And on the foes he rnsh'd ; 
And by one blow a stately foe 
To ea.ith the hero crush'd. 
And straight through the Persian throng 
An ample path he hew'd ; 
And wheree 'er the wrathful monarch strode , 
The earth with dead was strew'd. 
Pierced through the throat right swift he 
laid 



46 R LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

Ariomardus dead. 

And far amidst the Persian throng 

He cast that prince's head. 

Then next in Abrocomas' tliigh 

A horrid gasli he made ; 

And side hy side tliose stately youths 

Two gory corpses hiid. 

XXXI V. 

Meanwhile, behind their leader came 

The dauntless Spartan band , 

Hurling down the foes and treading thern 

Amidst the gory sand. 

Then one mighty rusli they made 

And through the pass tliey bore ; 

The struggling Persians back-ward, 

Far out upon the moor. 

And at the entrance of the pass 

Thc}^ stood and shook their brands ; 

And shouted forth defiance bold 

Unto the Persian bands. 

" Come on, come on, and feel our steel, 

Come on ye Persian knights 

And 3'our forms shall fat our dogs, 

And feast the Grecian kites." 

XXXV. 

Then with loud shouts and trumpet sound, 

From out that vast array, 

Ten thousand haughty Persians rushed 

To take the narrow way. 

Arzanes and Bardine the bold 

Headed the mighty charge ; 

Sternly each gigantic leader strode 

With blazing sword and targe. 

Arzanes met Eurytus, 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

And pierced the Spartan through ; 

And Eurytus smote Arzanes, 

And cleft his head in two. 

And dead those statel^^ heroes fell 

'Midst the gore and mire ; 

While o'er them the battle raged 

With redoubled ire. 

Bardine met Aristodemus, 

And smote his brazen shield ; 

But Aristodemus laid Bardine 

Breathless on the field. 

And on the haughty Persian's head, 

The Spartan pressed his heel ; 

And fast his gore and brains flow'd o'er 

His helmet of bright steel. 

XXXVI. 

Nor idle was thy arm the while, 

Thou dauntless Spartan lord ; 

Through many a Persian's throbbing heart 

Menestheus, went thy sword, 

And slaughtering all before him 

Dieneces onward pressed ; 

And valliant Agron's bloody steel 

Rent many a foemen^s breast. 

And all the warlike Spartan band 

On like a tempest drove ; 

And vainly 'gainst their matchless might 

The bravest Persians strove. 

And all around on the gory ground 

The foes were fallinof fast ; 

When in their rear the Spartan s heard 

A Persian trumpet blast. 

For while the Lacedemonians, 

In that dreadful hour, 



469 



470 LAYS OP ANCIENT TIMES. 

Beat back with slaughter dread the bravest 

Of the Persian power, 

Aided by base Ephialtes 

A secret path they found ; 

And o'er the hills in haste they inarched, 

And hemmed the Spartans round. 

XXXVII. 

Then terrific grew the battle 

And louder rose the din ; 

As at each entrance of the pass 

The foes came pouring in. 

For as the wrathful lions rush 

On their advancing foes, 

So did the warlike Spartans 

With the sons of Persia close. 

And though by thousands fast they fell 

Within that narrow pass, 

Yet by thousands onward swarm'd 

That mighty Persian mass. 

XXXVIII. 

Beneath the Spartan monarch's sword 

A corpse proud Thasis sunk ; 

With all his clashing arms he fell 

A quivering headless trunk. 

And then through Choa's helm and skull 

He sent so dread a thrust, 

That the gallant long-hair'd warrior 

Groan'd in the gory dust. 

And through flashing morion pierced 

Comely Artacseas fell, 

He who in tallness of form did all 

Save Xerxes' height excell. 

Better had those chiefs on that day 

Sported in Daphne's grove. 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 47I 

Or did with maids of Theopolis 

The leavy woodlands rove. 

Next to face the king of Sparta, 

Five stately warriors strode ; 

High o'er Susa's lofty walls 

Tower'd their fair abode. 

But ne'er again shall their eyes behold 

That city's ample walls ; 

And ne'er again shall their forms be seen 

Within their marble halls. 

For the first to earth a corpse he sent, 

And soon the second fell ; 

And the third pierced through and through, 

Died with a savage 3'ell. 

The fourth by one furious blow 

He hurled beneath his heel ; 

And the fifth through the breast-plate thrust 

Writhed on the Spartan's steel. 

And o'er their quivering forms, 

Fast fell the Persian band , 

As grain before the sickle falls, 

They fell before his brand. 

XXXIX. 

While thus the king of Sparta fought, 

And round him piled the slain, 

Right on his head was hurl'd a stone. 

That broke his helm in twain. 

And thick around the fair-hair'd king 

The arrows pour'd like rain, 

And right at him with levelled spears, 

The foemen dashed amain. 

Yet all undaunted, in that hour 

Freedom's champion stood ; 

Beat back or down the surging foes, 



472 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

And plied his broad-sword good ; 

Rose up like a towering rock 

Amidst a raging flood, 

And man}' a spear he cut ic twain, 

And shed its master's blood. 

Though at him hosts of Persians came, 

Yet earth with them he strew'd, 

And shouting, 'midst their ranks he rushed, 

And right and left he hew'd. 

All the foes around him trembled, 

To face him was to die ; 

When hissing came a feathered shaft, 

And pierced the warrior's eye. 

And down the king of Sparta fell, 

Amidst the dirt and gore ; 

And in his curpse the foemen drove 

A dozen spears and more. 

XL. » 

Then the furious trumpet's swell 

From earth to heaven arose. 

And that glorious Spartan band 

Slaughtering met their foes ; 

And like the dreadful mountain storm, 

That lays the forests low, 

So with one shout the Spartans rushed 

Upon their 3'ielding foes. 

Down fast the foes were trod and slain ; 

As round their slaughtered king ; 

That glorious Spartan band, 

Closed in a red, stern ring. 

XLI. 

Then fearful round the gory corpse 
The roar of battle grew ; 



LAYS OP LNCIENT TIMES. 4^3 

Shields rung on shields, and swords on 

swords, 
And darts on helmets flew. 
So thick o'er head the missiles sped, 
No Greek the sun could scan ; 
And all along the narrow pass 
The blood in torrents ran. 
And loud was heard the Spartan shout, 
The Persian groan and 3 ell ; 
Mingling with the deafening clash of steel, 
And the warhorn's maddening swell. 
As tigers war to guard their 3'oung, 
So for their king they strove ; 
Their swords distroj-ed the Persian host 
As lightnings waste the grove. 
But louder still, and louder 
That mighty battle roar'd ; 
And thicker still, and thicker 
On Greeks the Persian's pour'd. 

XLII. 

O'er his king, bold Agron fought. 

Nor one foot would he yield ; 

And fast with his good sword he hew'd 

To earth both man and shield. 

And he died on the kingly corpse 

His arm had kept so well ; 

A bloody spear in fierce career 

Pierced Agron's head from ear to ear, 

And on a borrid mound of slain, 

All covered o'er with gory stain, 

Down dead that hero fell. 

XLIII. 

In the foot prints of his slaughtered friend, 
Brave Menestheus strode, 



4*74 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

From that warrior's ghastly wounds 

The blood in torrents flow'd. 

Yet long he stood and slaughter'd 

And hosts of foes defied ; 

And to move that hero, long 

The bravest Persians tried. 

'Till through his shield a spear they drove, 

And pierced deep the warrior's side ; 

Dead on his friend the Spartan fell, 

Blood splashing far and wide. 

XLIV. 

As some giant oak that rear its head, 

High o'er the groves around, 

So 'midst his foes Dieneces rose, 

And hurl'd them to the ground. 

'Till o'er worn with toil and wounds 

Could wield his sword no more ; 

And down that hero sank and drown'd 

Amidst a lake of gore. 

So falls within the foaming sea 

A tall and stately mast. 

Borne down by the axe-man's ringing 

strokes. 
And by the mighty blast. 

XLV. 

But like a bickering fire, 

Driven before the gale, 

That lays the statel^^ forests waste 

Along the winding vale, 

Untiringly right on it goes. 

And spreads from hill to hill , 

Long as the forests stand before, 

It flares and bickers still. 

So once more the Sj)artans rush'd 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 4T5 

By Aristodemus led ; 

And rank on rank their foes they slew 

And heap'd the pass with dead. 

And down on the ghastly piles 

One by one the Spartans fell, 

So o'erworn with toil they could 

No more the foes repel. 

XLVI. 

Beneath the glowing Western waves 

Roll'd down the smiling sun ; 

The shades of night spread thick around, 

Nor was the battle done ; 

For some few hardy Spartans 

Who still had strength to stand, 

A furious combat waged 

Against the Persian band. 

But fast around those bleeding Greeks 

Gathered that mighty mass ; 

By thousands still the Persians rush'd 

To win the narrow pass. 

Long those few hardy Spartans stood 

Gainst that o 'erwhelmins tide : 

And when Freedom's champions fell, 

Without a groan, they died. 

XLVII. 

The dreadful roar of battle ceased, 

But loud the groan and wail 

Of dying foemen went forth 

Upon the midnight gale. 

For twice ten thousand foes that bow'd 

That morn to hail the sun. 

That night lay in the narrow pass, 

Their days of rapine done. 

No more o'er Persia's sunny plains 



416 LAYS OP ANCIENT TIMES. 

They'll chase the bounding deer; 
And never more 'gainst Greeks in war 
They'll lift the bloody spear. 

XLVIII. 

One lovely eve at Sparta 

As sunk the sun at rest, 

Wounded Aristodemus came 

In gory armor drest. 

But the warrior's speech, was slow. 

His look was sad and pale ; 

As around him throng'd the people 

To hear his gloomy tale. 

" Of all the three hundred Spartans 

Who went to guard the pass, 

I alone return, the rest lie dead 

Around Leonidas." 

So he spake, and here he lived 

A year of care and woe ; 

Then bravely at Platrea died 

'Midst thousands of the foe. 

XLIX. 

Heroic spirits of the dead, 

Who at ThermopyltB bled, 

Say, did ye not rejoice that night 

When down to Pluto's coasts. 

Ye drove in haste before your path 

Such crowds of Persian ghosts ? 

For to swell those mighty droves, 

Near Euboea's coast that day, 

We met the foes upon the sea 

And won a noble fray. 

With their blood we dyed the waters, 

And sunk ships fill'd with dead ; 

With them the monsters of the deep 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

That (lay we amply fed. 

Rejoice, rejoice, ye stately shades, 

As through your halls ye stride ; 

Rejoice, rejoice forever more, 

Not unrevenged ye died f 

For at Platsea's strife, with foes 

We fill'd the shores of hell ; 

At the battle of Plat.Ta 

Three hundred thousand fell. 

L. 

Hail, hail to the mighty dead 

Who for their country died, 

Hail, hail to dead Leonidas, 

Sparta's boast and pride. 

Aye, unto us his name shall sound. 

And every freeborn soul ; 

As the war-horn's blast that calls to us, 

To make the battle roll. 
. For in the day of battle, 

He was the mountain storm ; 

But in peace the sun of heaven, 

All bright, and calm, and warm. 

LI. 

Unto the brave Leonidas, 

Pausanias built this dome ; 

And the three hundred bold who went, 

To drive the foemen home. 

And here within this tower 

Let Spartans throng each year, 

And hold a feast in memory 

Of those we deem so dear. 

And let the maids of Sparta, 

Come from their shady bowers, 

And deck our hero's tomb 



LAYS OP ANCIENT' TIMES. 

With laurel boughs and flowers ; 

And then let Lacedaemon youths, 

In solemn order pass, 

Around the stately sepulchre 

Of brave Leonidas. 

Then let them join in manly sports, 

Beside our hero's grave, 

While banners of proud Sparta 

In glory o'er them wave. 

And all the wliile let trumpets sound. 

Their loudest war-notes pour ; 

Such as we hear when they call the brave 

To guard their native shore. 

While Lacedaemon's daring sons 

The gory brand can wield ; 

While in the battle's noble van 

They bear the bossy shield ; 

To our hero's memory 

Great homage we shall yield. 

Yes, to Leonidas and all 

Who, at Thermopylae, 

'Gainst thousands bravely fought and died 

To keep their county free. 

And let us ever, night and da}^, 

Almighty Jove adore, 

May he guide us in war and peace, 

As in the days of 3'ore. 

LII. 

Hurrah ! hurrah ! for Sparta, 
Land of the brave and bold — 
All nations, hearing of her deeds, 
Shall wondering behold. 
Hurrah ! for her warlike sons — 
Their foes before them fly ; 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 479 

When for their land they draw the brand, 

They conquer or they die. 

And hurrah 1 for Sparta's maids, 

By each charm of nature blest, 

They are, of all the maids on earth, 

The fairest and the best. 

The noblest, grandest in their form. 

The truest in their heart, 

Whose soul form virtue's highest walk 

No force, fraud, nor wile shall start, 

Though fenceless in the fray they stand 

And every friend depart. 

LIIT. 

Persia's maiden weeps, when the trump 

To war her' lover calls — 

The Roman mother grieves and mourns 

When her son in battle falls ; 

But the Spartan mothers rejoice 

When to war their children go ; 

They smile when for the nation's weal 

They see their red blood flow. 

They never wish to see their sons, 

If vanquished, they return ; 

'Tis only when they flee in strife 

That Spartan mothers mourn. 

" My son," the Spartan mother says, 

" Go to the battle-field, 

And return to me a victor, 

Or dead upon thy shield." 

LIV. 

So with the Spartan maid — she bids 
Her youth to battle go, 
And fight to guard her lovely form, 
And crush her countx'y's foe, 



480 LAYS OF ANCIFNT TIMES. 

If on his shield he's borne to her, 
She falls upon his breast, 
Without a tear, or groan, or sigh, 
Sinks into dreamless rest ; 
Or else, aye true to him she lives, 
And comes at evening hours. 
When all the -world is still around, 
And decks his tomb with flowers. 

LV. 

When this gigantic tower falls, 

And blends with desert sand. 

And each proud monument lies low 

By time's all-wasting hand ; 

And o'er the dismantled nation 

Other races shall arise. 

And no mark is left to show the spot 

Where Sparta's monarch lies, 

Here slaves will dig, and from the ground 

Some bulk}' bones may fling ; 

And little think they form'd a part 

Of Sparta's godlike king. 

Yes, little he will think the while. 

They form'd the arm and hand 

That fought so well in the narrow pass. 

To guard its native land. 

Who amidst the din of battle 

Was conceived and had his birth, 

And in the van of dangers reared 

Had no fear of aught on earth. 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 481 



THE BATTLE OF CANN^, 

A lay sung at Carthage, on the day Mago 
arrived with the news of victory. 



Ho 1 people of Carthage, awake ! 

And hear the song to-day ; 

For we sing of great Hannibal, 

And Cannae's glorious fray. 

And all around let trumpets sound 

Their war-notes near and far , 

While along our shouting streets, 

Brave Mago drives his car. 

And be no sound of work to-day, 

Throughout the country wide — 

Let all but feasting, mirth and joy, 

To-da}' be set aside. 

Let the banners of triumph wave 

Unto the freshening blasts ; 

Let them wave from all the towers, 

And Byrsa's loft}'^ masts. 

The knights to-day, upon their helms, 

Shall wear their gayest plumes, 

And all the maids to-day, shall leave 

Their dyeing-vats and looms — 

The ox, unyoked, at liberty, 

O'er the fair meads shall stray, 

And every Carthagenian slave 

Shall rest and feast to-day. 

For to day proud Rome is trembling, 

And all her strong allies ; 



482 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

And nought islieard throughout their lands, 

But wailing and loud cries. 

Mothers are rushing through their streets, 

And rave and rend their hair; 

And hoary men are weeping fast, 

Above their children's bier! 

II. 

How nobly has our hero strove 

To win his city fame ; 

And left her on the page of time 

A never-dying name. 

IIow can we e'er forget those deeds 

He wrought for us in Spain — 

See how Saguntum's stately walls 

He levelled with the plain, 

And left her strong and lofty towers, 

All wrapped in smoke and fire ; 

And see how Catalonia's hosts 

Fled before his ire. 

And see the toils and sleepless nights 

Our mighty hero bore ; 

All while he led our armies 

The Alpine mountains o'er. 

See how nobly he won the fight, 

Where Ticinus' waters flow ; 

And see how b^ Trebia's banks 

He crushed the mighty foe. 

See how o'er the Appenines he march 'd, 

'Midst storm and snow and rain. 

And at strong Placentia made 

Sempronius fly again. 

And see how o'er the Tuscan bog, 

That ever dismal fen, 

For four long days and sleepless nights 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. AS'6 

He led liis gallant men, , 

To where Arretium's towers 

Look o'er a fertile field ; 

And where Fesulse guards the hills 

That fruitful harvests yield. 

To where the bright Arnus wanders 

Through corn and wheat and vines ; 

To where Cortona lifts to heaven 

Her ever waving pines. 

And by dismal Thrasymenus, 

A mighty deed he wrought ; 

There was slain proud Flaminius, 

And all who round him fought. 

And where e'er our hero went, 

Rome's hosts before him flew ; 

Umbria and Picenum yielded. 

And proud Apulia too. 

At last he met the haughty Roman 

At Cannae face to face we came ; 

There won the thrice glorious fight 

And left on earth eternal fame. 

m. 

It was a noble sight that day 

To mount the statel}^ towers, 

And gaze on the field below, 

And view the hostile powers. 

To see the bravest sons of Rome, 

All cased in armor sheen; 

To hear their glorious trumpet sound, 

And see their sabres keen ; 

For far as the human eye could view 

That mighty host was seen. 

And all the spacious plains below 

With flashing helm and targe, 



484 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

With gleaming spears all ranged a rov, 

And swords that gave a blending glow. 

Did such a dazzling picture show 

As when the sun-set embers flow — 

And all their trembling glory throw 

On a river broad and large, 

That ripples 'neath the flashing light, 

Until all glows divinely bright 

O'er all from marge to marge. 

There, there Terentius Varro 

His fiery steed bestrode ; 

And in front of that vast array 

Proud Servilius rode. 

There ^Emilius Paulus shone, 

With his golden helm and shield ; 

There did Fabius and Minucius 

Their two-edged broad-swords wield. 

They who thought at Casilinum 

To make our hero jneld ; 

But he laid the strong city low. 

And wasted ever}^ field. 

And Yulturnus with Roman gore 

Flow'd on warm and red ; 

Yet still to war they led their bands, 

With haughty look and tread ; 

And all the Roman host came on, 

Like an ocean, fierce and large. 

Loud was the neigh and tramp of steeds 

And clang of sword and targe. 

IV. 

Meanwhile, the host of Carthage, 
Right glorious to behold, 
Stood shining to the morning sun, 
Like moving sea of gold. 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 485 

Rank behind rank their spears bristled, 

Like a broad grove of pines 

That boldly bide the coming storm, 

Upon the Appenines. 

Proud Mago^ of the five-fold shield, 

Was posted on the right, 

With twenty thousand hardy Gauls, 

And all the Spanish might. 

And far on the left, with the horsemen. 

Brave Maliarbal was seen ; 

All cased, the stately giant was, 

In brazen armor sheen. 

Brave Maharbal, whose lofty towers 

Frown o'er that dismal brake, 

Where Regulus, the bold Roman, 

Slaughtered the mighty snake — 

The mighty serpent that wasted 

Bagrada's fields and coast ; 

And sent to Pluto's dreary realms 

Many a gory ghost ; 

And in front of his strong array 

Where shield was lock'd on shield, 

Hannibal shook his flamy brand 

That few but he could wield. 

The swoi-d that brave Hamilcar bore 

To many a stubborn fray ; 

And through the Spanish phalanx made 

A broad and gory w ay. 

And right before his ample breast 

A beamy shield he bore ; 

And o'er his helmet of pure gold 

A lofty plume he wore ; 

Majestic as a god he shone. 

And moved with kingly pace , 

The comeliest knight of Carthage, 

The bravest of her race. 



486 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

V. 

But ere the warlike hosts engaged. 

Or the field with blood was red, 

Unto his glittering army 

The daring hero said : 

" To-day we must put the foe to flight, 

As oft we've done before ; 

For to-day shall decide if Rome 

Or Carthage be no more. 

And though the foe is so mighty 

They cover all yon field, 

Yet, warriors, if ye follow me. 

To us they soon shall yield. 

And yon host that looks so mighty 

Shall be the vulture's feast ; 

And ye shall dwell in these fair lands 

From toils and war released. 

And 3^e'll have all those piles of gold 

That shine in every dome ; 

And all the wealth that decks the shrines 

Within the walls of Rome. 

The Seven-Hill'd City you shall have 

To plunder at your will ; 

Soon as my standard waves upon 

The Capitolian hill. 

VI. 

As he speaks, amidst clouds of dust 

Front to front and feet to feet, 

With crashing spears and sounding shields 

The frantic armies meet. 

The heavens echoed to the crash, 

Earth shook beneath the jar ; 

And two thousand trumpets pour'd forth 

Their loudest war-notes near and far. 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 48t 

So from loft}^ Alpine mountains 

To a deep vale below, 

Two huge and mighty avalanches 

Together thundering go. 

But louder still and still more loud 

The din of battle rose, 

Like the noise of the bursting pines 

When the fell tempest blows ; 

And vindictive thunders boom the while 

And sound from pole to pole ; 

And on the tall and hollow cliffs 

The waves of ocean roll. 

And fiercer still and still more fierce 

Roar'd each leader's savage shout ; 

As o'er the gory field was heard 

The rally charge and rout. 

VII. 

And in that dark and horrid van 

Did brave Hannibal fight, 

Around him slaughtered lay many 

A Roman chief and knight. 

And by his side that chief of pride 

Mago the bold and strong, 

Through the bravest ranks of Rome 

Hew'd a gory path along. 

Then Servilius spied Hannibal 

Far o'er the cumbered plain, 

And just like a famished tiger 

Rush'd at the chief amain. 

" Hail Hannibal, Servilius 

Has sought thee many a day, 

Souo-ht thee in times of peace and mirth, 

And many a bloody fray. 

Now brave Hannibal, I warn you 



488 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

Unto Servilius yield ; 

Or you, or I, or both to-day, 

Shall straight die upon the field." 

He said, and at brave Hannibal 

Let his strong broad-sword go ; 

But our hero's beamy shield 

Right nobly turn'd the blow ; 

And then he smote Servilius 

Through helmet and through head — 

Out burst the Roman's brain and gore 

In a torrent large and red. 

And the proud Servilius fell 

On earth, to rise no more ; 

And 'neath the heel of Hannibal 

He writhed in mud and gore. 

He fell as falls the statel}^ oak 

Beneath the levin brand, 

That long has braved the storms and waves 

Along old ocean's strand. 

VIII. 

When ^milius Paulus saw 
Servilius was dead, 
Unto Terentius Yarro 
In haste that hero said, 
" We must not see Servilius 
Stripp'd of his armor bright, 
For he was ever a friend to us. 
And Rome's most comel}' knight, 
And what e'er at council and at board 
The warrior's faults have been ; 
Yet in the field against Rome's foes 
His sword was strong and keen." 
He said, and mounting on his steed, 
He sent his spurs in gore. 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 489 

And like a flash of flame he flew 

Across the bloody moor. 

And right fast behind him rode 

A fieiy Roman band ; 

But the}^ came, as come the angry wave 

Against the rocky strand. 

And as autumnal leaves are strew'd 

Before a Northern squall, 

So thick, so fast before our men 

Rank on rank the foemen fall. 

And soon the slain Servilius 

Was lost and covered o'er, 

With dread mountains of the dead 

All reeking with their gore. 

And the wounded steeds were plunging, 

And groaning with their pain ; 

And midst the gore and mud they trod 

The dying and the slain. 

And no more ^Emilius Paulus 

Was seen upon the field, 

No longer in the van he shone 

With his bright helm and shield. 

IX. 

But like the waves of ocean, 

That cannot cease to flow, 

While the sky is dark ribove, • 

And while the tempests blow, 

But in their dread frantic ire 

They foam and burst and boil, 

And untiring dash on rocks, 

And roar in fierce turmoil ; 

So while the clash of steel is heard 

And while the trumpets bray, 

Those bold and warlike bands of Rome 



490 LAYS or ANCIENT TIMES. 

Must mingle in the fray. 

Now on in one vast mass they come. 

Rank behind ranlc they sliine, 

With flags and swords and bristling spear, 

And targes all in line. 

Right onward fast they rushing come 

With glorious trumpet sound, 

And well nigh by their mighty shouts 

The clang of steel was drown'd. 

X. 

Soon Hannibal's all-piercing e^^e 

Had view'd the coming blast ; 

" Soldiers, stand firm with me," he said, 

" This charge shall be their last. 

And haste thee, gallant Mago, haste, 

Yon snow-white charger take, 

And fly, fl}"- with all the speed 

The fiery beast can make ; 

Tell Maharbal, I bid him charge 

The Roman flank and rear. 

To rush, with all the force he has, 

Nor leave an idle spear. 

See thou that all the horsemen go. 

And make them sla}^ and slay ; 

For if j'^e fight, and fight like men, 

We soon shall end this fray" 

XI. 

As flies an arrow to its mark 

From a strong hunter's bow. 

So swift to the ranks of Maharbal 

Did the proud Mago go ; 

A nd right in front of that bold chief 

He drew his charger's rein. 

" Now Maharbal — Now 1" he cried, 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 491 

" Dash on the foe amain. 
On the Roman flank and rear 
Make all the haste you can ; 
For Hannibal with hut a few, 
Keeps back their mighty van I" 

XII. 

With clashing steel, at that command, 

Ten thousand swords were bared, 

And towards the foe,on tenthousand steeds, 

Ten thousand warriors dared. 

Ten thousand steeds, as proud and strong 

As ever trod the green — 

Ten tliousand knights, and brave 

As e'er the sun has seen. 

Thick and fast the clouds of dust arose, 

And darken'd overhead ; 

And like a murky storm they rush'd, 

With clamors fierce and dread. 

XIII. 

Though rank behind rank the bristling 

Roman spears were set ; 

Yet vainl}^ on that day they stood, 

That mighty charge to let. 

Down, down their haught}^ banners fell — - 

Down, down their cohorts went ; 

And thousands, and ten thousands, 

In mud and gore were sent. 

So, from the mountain's hoarj^ crown, 

Comes down the ice and snow 

To the vales, with a might^^ sweep. 

Laying the strong forests low. 

Loud rung beneath the horse's hoof 

The clang of breaking steel ; 

And soon both horse and man in gore 



492 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

Were smear 'd, from head to heel — • 
And soon the neigh and tramp of steed 
And the trumpet's storm^^ breath, 
And all the noise of war was drown'd 
Amidst the wail of death. 

XIV. 

But not tamely, on that dreadful da}^, 

Were slain the sons of Rome ; 

Not unvenged they fell, amidst 

The seas of blood and foam — 

For soon they rallied once again, 

And Yarro led the charge ; 

And Fabius and Minutius 

Rode up with sword and targe. 

Then the horsemen and the footmen met. 

And fast the warriors died ; 

Then proved Vfas Carthagenian strength, 

And Roman power tried. 

Loud rung upon the crashing helms 

The might}^ storms of blows ; 

As, hand to hand, with gory bi'and, 

The Romans met their foes. 

Upon his foes, with deadlj'^ hate. 

Proud Yarro dash'd amain; 

By Fabius and Minutius 

Was many a hero slain. 

Like a thunderbolt, upon his foes, 

Maharbal flew, sword in hand ; 

And through many a Roman's skull 

He sent his reeking brand. 

And Mago smote down Lucius. 

All Rome's great boast and pride — 

Lucius, whose stately mansion shines 

On mount Aventine's side : 



LAYS or ANCIENT TIMES. 493 

And down Mago sent Lepidus, 

"Who led liis hostile powers 

From where, o'er the dark waves of Tiber, 

Arise Fidense's towers ; 

And Hannibal hurl'd down Piso, 

Etruria's bravest man; 

Then at the Carthagenian 

Fiery Drusus ran — 

Through haughty Drusus' shield and breast 

He drove his weighty brand, 

And by Piso's side proud Drusus died, 

Amidst the bloody sand. 

And then, pierced through b}- Hannibal, 

Stately Claudius died ; 

Strong Claudius, the boldest knight 

Of all the Ckudian tribe. 

And down went Blaesus, who sprung 

From the proud Fabian line, 

And across his corpse brave Marcus 

Fell, stretched in death supine — 

Marcus, who won sweet Julia, 

The fairest maid of Rome — 

Long that fair maid shall look for him, 

Who shall never more go home ! 

And fast around, on the gory ground, 

Fell Roman chiefs and knights — 

A feast was spread that day for all 

Campi Diomedis' kites. 

And loud the glossj- ravens croaked 

Above the ghastly slain, 

As to and fro that battle rocked 

Along the cumber'd plain. 

XV. 

But vainly on that day the blood 
Of Roman consuls flow'd ; — 



494 LAYS OF ANCJENT TIMKS. 

Vainly to ])r('nk our Kerricd lines 

The Roman ix-a'tors rode. 

Within the sli^jpeiy swamps of hlood 

Tiiey found their ghastly bed, 

'Till terror whelm'd the Roman hosts, 

And from tlie fteld the}' fled. 

XVI. 

Then into raging Aufidus 

The ranks of Rome Avere hnrl'd 

Before that cavalcade, like reeds 

On storms that sweep the world. 

By thoiisandi.;, hoi.se and foot, they went 

That fatal stream to ford, 

And soon against a dam of slain, 

The "Waters foam'd and roar'd. 

Hard tlie pent wattu'S raging <hish'd 

Against tlie bank of dead ; 

'Till, with a mighty rush, they came, 

And o'er the dam they sped. — 

A\v:iy — away the waters rush'd, 

Rejoicing to be free, 

And corpses stiff, and groaning men 

Went rolling to the sea. 

XVII. 

Meanwhile, each of our footmen 

Stood resting on his targe ; 

And, all amazed, they silent gazed 

At that terrific charge. 

E'en Hannibal wondering stood, 

Would scarce believe his sight. 

When he saw that mighty Roman host 

Roll down the stream of flight. 

Long — long the footmen silent stood, 

The tumult to descry ; 



LAYH OF ANrMKNT 'I'l.VlKS. 495 

At hist from :ill ti slioiil, luokc Cortli 

" Iliirmli !_tli(^ HoHi.-uiH lly I" 

JJiit wlicn our noble licro saw 

How tli<* furious flood 

Of Aufidiis wuH choked willi d(;ad 

And (;riniS(Mi'd o'('r wiUi bhjod, 

lliglit 'midst th(! liohtinjr nuiks he rushed, 

And shouted, loud and clear, 

"UoI wiirriors, stop llie work of dcaLli I 

The v.'UKjiiislicd rocin('ii sp.-irel" 



X VIM. 



Ah the niijjjhty billowH off he deep, 

When tempestH cease t*^ ro.-ii', 

Roll hack to ocean's troultled bieast 

And hiavc! tli(; shutter'd shore 

Surge behind surge they r<j|liiig go 

Far out for many a mile, 

And seem to laugh and smile in triumph 

At the lone jirxl wasted isle, 

So from the ruin'd liost of Jlome, 

Each hardy, warlike band, 

Rank behind rank tuni'd back from strife 

At tlieir chief's comm;uid. 

And from the bands a nhout burst forth 

That shook all Cannae's towers— 

" Thanks to the everliving gods, 

Who m:id(r this triumph oiii's!" 

Those who dwell in Canna; stait as if 

They heard a whirlwind's blast, 

And swift o'er their tott(!iing walls 

Look'd out pule and aghast. 



XIX. 



Just as th(; work of slaughter ceased 
Across the dismal plain, 



496 LAYS OF LNCIENT TIMES. 

A goiy steed and rider made 

At Hannibal amain. 

" Haste thee, Hannibal I" he cried, 

" Be ready to die or yield ; 

It ne'er shall be said Minutius 

Fled any battle field 1" 

But ere he couched his spear, on earth 

His weary charger sank, 

And headlong the wounded Roman fell, 

And the earth his red blood drank. 

XX. 

While the Carthagenian bands 

Were shouting o'er the plain. 

And stripping the golden armor 

From ofli the thousands slain, 

Alone our Hannibal stood 

Gazing o'er the field of dead, 

At Fabius and proud Yarro 

Who towards Venusia fled. 

" Farewell — fare well, brave foes I" he cried, 

" To haughty Rome no more 

Yell bring the joj^ous news of triumph, 

As oft ye've done before !" 

While thus our warrior spake 

He heard a mournful sound, 

He turn'd, and on a pile of slain 

The wounded Paulus found. 

XXI. 

" Now haste thee, Hannibal 1" he cried, 

" And slay me with thy brand. 

So future years may tell that Paulus 

Died by a noble hand. 

Yes, haste thee, ni}- generous foe, 

And rid me of my pain ; 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 497 

For am I sore with Avounds and gore, 

And ne'er shall rise again. 

But, by the gods ! had I the power 

Once more within my form, 

To mount the steed for one bare hour, 

And ride 'mid battle storm — 

Then where the slaughter'd thickest lie, 

And tumult fiercest roar, 

There would I shout my battle cry, 

And draw the sword once more. 

One rally more, and Paulus there ! 

One blast from my war horn 

Might retrieve this bloody day. 

And made proud Carthage mourn 1" 



XXII. 



As he speaks, from his ghastly wounds 

The dark, red torrents flow. 

" Ne'er will I,' said Hannibal, 

"E'er slay a vanquish 'd foe ; 

Live, Paulus, live! nor think of death, 

Although all Rome I hate. 

Have loathed her from my youth, and still 

Shall loathe, what e'ei my fate. 

Yet, when I see her mightiest 

Before me lying low, 

I feel that compassion in my breast 

That mortals to mortals owe." 

XXIII. 

" Cease 1 — think not to solace me ; 
Thy words are all in vain ; 
^milius Paulus shall soon 
Be number'd with the slain I 
Hannibal, had it been my lot, 
When the war was raging wide, 



498 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

To have met thee in single fight 

And our valor tried ; 

Yes, warrior, had my greatest wish 

Been only gratified ; 

Then thou, yes, thou ! great Hannibal, 

By this Roman arm had died ! 

Then Paulus would have been a name 

To ever}' Roman dear. 

Even had Carthage won their battle 

And Paulus fill'd his bier. 

Yes, in palace, hall and tower, 

I'd been remember 'd long ; 

I would have gone to future j-ears 

In story and in song. 

But that wish was vain — I fall forgot. 

And sleep with friend and foe ; 

Like a chieftain brave let it be — 

The gods have will'd it so. 

But if some friend could take my sword 

And hang it in my hall. 

And bid my sons in future years 

Avenge their father's fall ; 

If only that wish could be dona, 

Contented would I die ; 

And leave this world of care and woe 

Without a groan or sigh. 

But, Hannibal, leave me not here 

To rot like a common slave ; 

But grant a dying warrior's wish — 

Give me a soldier's grave." 

XXIV. 

He ceased — and death's last agony 

Then came and past away ; 

And there Rome's wisest Consular 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 499 

A gory carcass lay. 

Long, long the during victor 

Stood gazing in his face ; 

" Farewell, farewell," at length he cried, 

" Thou bravest of thy race ; 

Proud Rome will seek, but seek in vain, 

A bolder chief to find ; 

Sleep on, brave chief, the ceaseless sleep — 

So ends all human kind." 

XXV. 

The shadea of night came hasting down, 

And liid the field from sight ; 

The field where seventy thousand foes 

Had sunk beneath our might. 

Then round their glowing camp-fires 

The conquering heroes throng ; 

And merrily they pass'd the time 

With feasting and with song. 

Till Phcebe climb'd the silent sky 

And o'er the fields of dead. 

In unclouded loveliness 

Her rays of glory shed. 

Then, by her glowing light, right soon 

The Carthagenian brave. 

With his good broad-sword, for Paulas 

Dug an ample grave. 

Gently he laid the warrior down, 

With armor red with gore. 

To slumber out the weaiy years 

'Till nature is no more. — 

The sleep that all mankind must sleep, 

The coward and the brave ; 

Upon that cold and lonely bed 

Within the silent grave ; 



500 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

Nor force, nor prayer, nor fight, nor fear, 
That horrid doom can save I 

XXVI. 

Ho ! ye mothers of Capua 

And maids of haughty Rome, 

Weep, weep and rend your hair for those 

Who shall never more go home 1 

Weep, weep, and with maddening anguish 

Gaze o'er j^our stately walls, 

For those whose voice nor tread shall sound 

Within your marble halls. 

Weep, on I for all the howling wolves 

Have left their mountain lair, 

And screaming birds of prey come forth 

Their gory flesh to tear 1 

Mourn on, proud Rome, and send to heaven 

Thy countless tales of woe, 

And let the everliving gods 

Thy cause of sorrow know ; 

And at the dead hour of midnight, 

When murky tempests rise, 

And robe with thickest gloom profound, 

The earth and sea and skies, 

Thy sons shall quake with terror dread, 

At the roar of every squall, 

And think the Carthagenians 

Are thundering at thy wall. 

XXVII. 

Hurrah ! hurrah for Carthage I 
First city of the world ; 
A few more days, and her banner 
O'er Rome shall be unfurl'dl 
Huarah ! hurrah for Hannibal I 
The bravest chief alive ; 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 501 

Vainly the foes of Carthage 

Against her hero strive ! 

To him Graecia Magna yields, 

With Tarentum, proud and great; 

And humbly to the conqueror 

Capua opes her gate. 

And to all who dwell from Clanis 

Unto the roaring Nar, 

The name of mighty Hannibal 

Sounds like an earthquake's jar. 

Hurrah ? hurrah for Hannibal, 

The generous and the free ! — 

Hurrah 1 hurrah, for Carthage, 

Empress of land and sea 1 

XXVIII. 

Sweep on, all-wasting time — 

Roll on, roll on, ye years ; 

Yet to mankind their names shall sound, 

Till away all nature wears. 

Yes, in palace, hall and bower, 

And the poor shepherd's bield. 

Long the warlike songs shall sound 

Of Cannje's bloody field. 

When winter snows are on the earth, 

And night is closing in ; 

And the strong storm roars fierce without, 

And louder roars the linn — 

In silence round their blazing hearth 

Young lads shall often close, 

While their sire tells how Hannibal 

Wasted his country's foes. 

XXIX. 

Now here, in Carthage, let us build 
A fair and lofty tower, 



602 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

For him who conquer'd warlike Spain 

And broke the Roiniin power. 

And when, with captives and with spoils 

Our hero comes from Rome, 

We'll lead him up the shouting streets 

Tt) his own stately home. 

Oil that day, come, all ye people, 

To your own Carthage throng, 

And send away the happy day 

With feasting and with song. 

And first to the immortal gods 

Who rule all earth and heaven. 

Let our bounteous sacrifice 

And heartfelt thanks be given. 

Ay, ever in peace and battle, 

Let them remember'd be ; 

And Carthage dictates to the world — 

Her ships sail every sea. 

* * * 



THE CHARGE OF ODDUNE, 

A lay sung by his followers. 



All dark and dismal was the night, 

And hard the rain did pour, 

And from their wild and lonel}' heights, 

We heard the torrents roar. 

And from the windows wide we saw 

Terrific lightnings glow ; 

And booming over head we heard 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. yOS 

The thunders come and go. 

And all mute and motionless, 

We sat in Kinwith hall ; 

Each warrior's sword, and shield, and helm, 

Were hanging on the wall. 

Each brow w^as sad, each cheek was pale, 

But not through dastard fear, 

There sat men that night who had fought, 

In man^^ a carnage drear. 

We thought of all our many wrongs, 

Wrought by the ruthless Dane ; 

Of parent, child and wife, who lay 

Unburied on the plain. 

These were the thoughts that roved our 

breasts. 
When lo 1 bold Oddune rose, 
And spoke with voice as strong and high. 
As the loud storm that blows. 
" Warriors and chiefs, come brace on arms, 
For yonder is .the foe , 
I hear them shouting in their camp, 
I see their torches glow. 
Come, while the storm is raging wild, 
And glooms the midnight sky, 
Avenge the life of child and wife, 
Or let us with them die. 
Far better to fall in battle, 
Among the bold and brave, 
Than linger out a load of years, 
And be a despofs slave. 
Fiery Hubba lies afar. 
With full two thousand men ; 
So let us issue from this tower, 
And drive him from his den. 
Honor 'd be they who fall in fight, 



■504 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

Sraear'd with the gore of foes; 
Eternal fame be their's who free 
Their country of its woes." 

II. 

Just as he speaks each warrior springs, 

And soon from head to heel, 

The hardy sons of war are cased, 

In their glittering steel. 

A glorious sight it is, I trow 

To see that gallant train, 

As they issue from that tower, 

And marshall on the plain. 

A thousand sturdy men are there. 

Who ne'er were known to j-ield ; 

Men who have fought the warlike Dane, 

On many a bloody field. 

All arm'd each trusty warrior is, 

With axe, and spear, and bow ; 

And when their leader says advance. 

They rush upon the foe. 

III. 

As the hungry wolf that all night 

Has slept mid snow and rain, 

Rises at the cry of coming foes, 

So leaps in wrath the Dane. 

"To arms, to arms," they cry, and soon 

With sword, and spear, and targe. 

Like the roar of a mighty storm 

Thej^ thunder to the charge. 

Sword meets with, and spear with spear, 

And man is met with man ; 

And loud the bossy bucklers sound. 

Along each serried van. 

But louder still and still more loud, 



LAYS nv ANCIENT TIMES. 505 

That mighty battle roars, 

Like the noise of the raging deep 

When the fell tempest pours. 

And fiercer still and still more tierce, 

Sound the stern shout and yell, 

Mingling with the neigh andtramp of steeds, 

And with the warhorn's swell. 

And now onward and now backward, 

Reels horiidly the fight; 

And all save when the lightnings flash, 

Is robed in utter night. 

Through the pools of blood all masterless, 

The snorting chargers go, 

And oft beneath their hoof there sounds, 

A groan of maddenVl woe, 

TV. 

The golden hues of morning come, 

And robe the world in light, 

Yet hand to hand with spear and brand, 

Like warriors stern we fight. 

And as the ponderous anvil, 

Doth 'neath the hammer ring. 

So o'er the field clangs helm and shield, 

As down the sword we bring. 

Who is he on that haughty steed, 

Smear'd o'er with human gore ? 

He shakes in his hand a reeking brand. 

And guides the conflict's roar ? 

Who but Oddune, the bold and brave, 

"Now, now," he cries, "my men, 

On to yon wing where Hubba fights, 

On to the lion's den. 

On to where yon gay banner waves. 

And his be honor, power, 



506 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

Who brings that banner of the Danes, 

To Kinwith's statel}' tower " 

As he speaks the war bursts out anew, 

Fresh vigor now seems given — 

To every arm, and the trumpet's bray, 

Roars up from eartli to heaven. 

And round their magic banner. 

The Danes a phalanx make . 

And soon the earth beneath their feet, 

Looks like a gor}^ lake. 

For fast we sternly close around, 

To crush the dauntless foe. 

But still the Dane doth meet us, 

Man for man, blow for blow. 

And in the van fierce Hubba stands, 

As solid as a rock ; 

And all splash'd o'er he is with gore, 

And bides the battle's shock. 

"Sons of Denmark, fight on, fight on, 

Ye who in battle fall. 

Shall live in everlasting joy, 

In Oden's sacred hall. 

In bless'd Valhalla ye shall sport, 

And ride the roaring wind ; 

And combat hand to hand with ghosts, 

And hunt the shadowy hind. 

In Asgard, eternal Asgard, 

Is nought but pleasure found ; 

There ye '11 feast and the fair Yalkyries, 

Shall deal the nectar round. 

So still fight on, ye warriors, fight, 

On, for know bless'd Bifrost, 

Is trod by hero's souls alone, 

And by no coward's cross 'd. 

Fight on, beat down tlie foe — who fears 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 501 

To fill a hero's tomb, 

When he dies shall dwell in grief, and roam 

The realms of snow and gloom." 



So Hubba cheers his band, and grasps 
His flag and waves it round ; 
And leaps like a tiger on his foes, 
And hurls them to the ground. 
Now right, now left, his path he hews, 
•And to his flag he clings ; 
That flag wove by his sisters three, 
The pride of Denmark's kings. 
That flag his blue-e3-ed sisters wrought, 
With many a strange device ; 
Which he and Hinguar bore to war. 
From Sevo's realms of ice. 
But lo ! an axe has split his head, 
A spear has pierced his breast ; 
And Hubba falls in gore and mud, 
To everlasting rest. 

VI. 

Instantly o'er the cumber 'd field, 

A fearful j-ell arose ; 

And sternly round their slaughter 'd king, 

The sons of Lochlin close, 

But vainl}'^, round their slaughter'd king. 

The sons of Lochlin die ; 

Yainly for their reeling banner 

Tha sturdy blows they ply. 

VII. 

Hark 1 how through helmet and through 

head 
The sabres crashing go ; « 

And see how, from the dying chiefs, 



508 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

The ghastly torrents flow. — 
See how fearlessly they meet, 
And on Thor and Oden call ; 
And see how fast on either side 
Godlike champions fall. 
Hark I how on breast-plate and on shield 
Clubs, spears and axes ring ; 
And see how the fell battle rocks 
Around the fallen king. 
Fierce Harold and brave Sigurd fall, 
Who left their stately home 
Near where the roaring Torno leaps, 
Amidst the Bothnic foam. 
And wai'like Torquil never more 
Shall chase the bounding roe 
Over Suecia's rugged plains, 
Or Sevo's head of snow. 
And Arno eviscerated lies 
Beneath his bleeding steed, 
Arno, who led his statel}^ bands 
From the banks of roaring Tweed. 
And haughty Suran laughing dies, 
Pierced by a Danish spear — 
Suran, whose lofty towers frown 
O'er the dark waves of Wear. 
But fast as before the reapers 
Doth fall the ripen 'd grain, 
So us before, in swamps of gore. 
The foes are trod and slain. 
Hurrah for the ponderous axe ! 
Hurrah for the gleaming sword ! 
Hurrah for the stalwart hands that 
With them clear their passage broad, 
That hurl down all within their path, 
* Proud sea-king, prince and lord 1 



LAYS or ANCIENT TIMES. 509 

VIII. 

Let trumpets sound a note of joy, 

And let the people know 

That we have won the day, and ta'en 

The banner of the foe. 

Rejoice I 3'e young and old, rejoice ! 

All our foes are dead, 

Save haughty Rafno, Norwa3^'s king, 

And he from battle fled. 

On the broad waters of the deep 

He spreads his sail alone. 

And fast he back to Lochlin hies, « 

Who came to win a throne. 

And mourn, ye sisters of Hubba ! 

At midnight's silent hour 

The flag ye wove, for which we strove, 

Now hangs in Kenwith's tower. 

Ay, weep, ye three bright eyed sisters I 

Regnar's blooming daughters, 

For Hubba 's sails shall no more shine 

O'er the dark, blue waters ; 

For here, 'mid gore, to rise no more, 

Doth sleep your red haired king : 

O'er him the hungry raven croaks 

And flaps his glossy wing. 

Oh, all je birds of heaven mourn, 

And all 3'e beasts of prey, 

For ample feasts he spread for ye, 

When flashed his sword in fray. 

Mourn all ye monsters of the flood. 

That grim through oceans swim. 

For well he feasted ye with blood, 

Quivering form and limb. 



510 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

IX. 

Who is she on 3'on stately rock, 

That frowns o'er the roaring sea? 

Her ej-es are bright as stars of night 

Her step is light and free ; 

She seems a spirit, God to earth 

For one short season sent, 

That man might wondering behold 

What charms on high are blent. 

Her heaving breast is like the foam 

Of roaring waves below ; 

O'er that breast, in glorious folds, 

Her long, brown tresses flow. 

Her arms and neck are white as snow, 

When Lapland's nights are long ; 

And with a voice like seraph's sweet 

She chants an ancient song. 

A form more gentle and more fair 

Ne'er trod trod this world below ; 

A heart more generous and kind 

Ne'er mourn 'd o'er others' woe. 

Her blushing cheeks like Lochlin's snow, 

When by a sunset dyed — 

Such is Minona, Rafno's child. 

And Hubba's gentle bride. 



^' Say, father of Minona, 
Why returns the king alone ? 
Where are all thy warriors, and he 
Minona call'd her own ? 
Thy sad look tells that he is low. 
That he'll return no more ; 
And has my hero fallen, then 
On Britain's distant shore ? 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 511 

All ! sa}', will he return no more, 

And cheer me with a smile ? 

Say, does the grass wave o'er ray love, 

In that far lonely isle ? 

Speak, father of Minona, speak I 

Say, did my hero die ? 

Alas 1 I know it must be so, 

For tears now dim thine eye ? 

And can I live, now he is dead ! — 

Ah ! no : long, long ago 

I promised him to die witli him ; 

So farewell, all below i 

Shade of Hubba, hail ! I come to join 

Thee in thy starry homel" 

She said, and like a Naiad dived 

Beneath the milk-white foam. 

The foam flowed on, but never more 

Rose from those waters wild — 

The lovely form of Hubba's bride. 

Or Rafno's blooming child. 



THE BATTLE OF EDDINGTON, 

A sons: of Alfred's followers. 



Oh ! glory be to God on high, 
From whom all glories spring I 
And glory unto brave Alfred, 
Our heroic king^ I 



512 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

This da}' let all the church bells chime, 

All throughout our isle ; 

Let the loud notes of triumph swell, 

And mirth and gladness smile ! 

Gather, ye warriors, young and old, 

The feeble and the strong ; 

And come, all 3'e mourning daughters. 

And join the dance and song ! 

For now the one we've long thought dead 

To us has come again ; 

And he, by God's especial grace, 

Has overthrown the Dane. 

So, glory be to God on high. 

From whom all glories spring ! 

And glory unto brave Alfred, 

Our noble chief and king I 

II. 

Oh, how our hearts were beating 

With anguish, all yestreen, 

As we saw the fierce Dane debark. 

And camp on British green I 

We heard their loud shouts,and their threats 

Of rapine and of blood. 

We knew how all those had serA^ed us 

That had crossed the briny flood : 

So we cried unto the holy God 

Who rules the battle field. 

To aid us 'gainst the ruthless foes. 

And force the Dane to yield. 

So, glory to the Lord of Hosts, 

Forever may he reign ! 

For Jle, indeed, has seen our need, 

And overthrown the Dane 1 



LAYS OE ANCIEFT TIMES. 513 

III. 

All that night, from tower to tower, 

Right fast the couriers sped ; 

The}^ warned our Saxon brothers, all, 

Of the hordes, by Guthrum led. 

They told our king was living j^et, 

And e'er of day the dawn, 

He bade us, with all our chiefs, 

Meet him on Brixton's lawn. 

That was one night of wild delight. 

Such as is seldom seen ; 

And soon eighthuudred knights were cased, 

All in their brazen armor sheen. 

And loug before tlie dawn of day 

We met upon the green. 

But when we saw our Alfred there, 

Alive and sound in limb. 

All hearts beat loud with boundless joy, 

All eyes were fix'd on him. 

Then rose amidst our ranks a shout 

(That made Selwood forest ring, 

And made the fair-hair 'd Alfred smile), 

" God save our noble king 1" 

"Now, hark ye, chiefs," bold Alfred said, 

' The Danes, tliis day, I fight I 

So come, my men, and aid me through ; — 

Let God defend the right 1 

But let all those, if such there are 

Amidst this gallant show, 

Who would not for their homes with me, 

Beat down the ruthless foe, 

Let him come forth, and go at once, 

From out of my arra^' ; 

For in sooth of all ye who fight, 

Will see a bloody fray. 



514 LA"i3 OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

But now behold to-day I wear, 
This broad and shining shield, 
Let it be the guiding star to-day. 
To light 3'ou o'er the field. 
And when I ride amidst the tide, 
"Where sound the keenest blows, 
Press hard behind 3-our king, my men, 
And aid him 'gainst the foes. 

IV. 

" Hurrah I Hurrah I the foes are coming, 

Right swift across the moor ; 

See how proud their shining squadrons 

move, 
Their bravest all before. 
Hark to their laugh, their shout, and song, 
Hark to their trumpet sound. 
Hark how their heavy measured tread, 
Now shakes the solid ground. 
Now, now, ye Saxons, by the forms 
Of those ye deem most dear, 
I charge ye fight and follow me. 
Nor dream of flight nor fear." 
Eight hundred horsemen are spurring. 
Along that level field, 
Eight hundred men are riding close 
Behind that shining shield. 
Eight hundred men as bold and brave. 
As e'er were cased in steel, 
Or faced the horrid front of war. 
And forced a foe to reel. 
And on amidst the foes they plunge, 
Their blows are stark and keen ; 
But far amidst the thickest fight, 
That shining shield is seen. 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 515 

Like a meteor it flames afar, 
Amidst the fiercest foes ; 
Where e'er that shining targe is seen, 
Are heard the ringing blows. 



High on his dark brown charger' 

The stately Guthrum rides, 

And half the brunt of that fell flght, 

The gallant hero bides. 

Now on he goes amidst his foes, 

And slaughters all around ; 

And loud upon his shield and helm, 

The swords and axes sound. 

"Fight on, my gallant men," he cries, 

"Fight on, heros, one, and all ;" 

While he cheers, fast on either side, 

The axes rise and fall. 

Far to the right he Alfred spies. 

Amidst the carnage drear, 

And towards him like an eagle strong, 

He darts in fiei'ce career. 

Hurrah ! for both those mightj^ kings, 

By which those hosts are led ; 

Both born and reared in dangerous van, 

To all toils of battle bred. 

Hurrah 1 for their gleaming armor. 

And limbs of giant girth ; 

Hurrah ! for their dauntless souls 

That fear no force on earth. 

VI. 

Behold in stern and mortal fray. 
Now meet the burly kings ; 
And fast on either shining helm, 
Each flashing broadsword rings. 



516 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

Fierce Guthrum sends one miglit}' thrust, 

Right through the Saxon's shiekl ; 

But Alfred smites the haught}" Dane, 

And hurls him on the field. 

Down from his steed the Saxon leaps, 

To slay the Danish king, 

But faster the Danes around their chief, 

Close in a dark, stern ring. 

VII. 

Now behold, with tenfold fury. 

The dreadful battle grows ; 

Down from their steeds the horsemen 

spring, 
And hand to hand they close. 
As foes to foes on foot they close, 
The maddening trumpets sound. 
And steel unceasing rings on steel, 
And carnage deepens round. 
But lo ! look to yon leftward wing. 
Where hundreds tug and strain, 
Guthrum is on his feet once more. 
And the kings now meet again. 
With flashing brands they meet like clouds, 
Driven by contending storms, 
When they come surcharged with thunder. 
And lightnings robe their forms* 
But fast the slieets of dust arise. 
Spread round their sable shrouds, 
And that fier}- combat hides. 
Within a night of clouds. 
But through the horrid dust of war 
Flashed bright helm, sword and shield. 
Like meteors in stormy skies 
Gleamed o'er the darkened field. 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 51 ^ 

All wrapped in clouds of dust profound, 

The miglitj^ battle roars, 

Like the raging T»aves at midnight, 

When toss'd on rocky shores. 

Like the noise of crashing forests 

When through them the whirlwind goes, 

So loud, so fast amidst the gloom, 

Resound the storms of blows. 

Loud sounds the shouting of the slayers 

And loud the dying groans ; 

And loud crash beneath tlie horses' hoofs, 

Beaking mail and hero's bones, 

VIII. 

Hark! Hark! the cry is ''Alfred, " 
And loud each roaring trumpet blares 
And from the scene of dust and strife, 
The M^arlikc Saxon king appears. 

Tall as the giant form of Thor 

Fierce as that god he seems 

When victor from the strife he comes, 

Wading through gory streams. 

Gloomy as night, the god appears. 

With dust and blood smear'd o'er; 

And from his clanging armor drop 

Great clots of human gore. 

His hair is stiff with gore and mud, 

His eyes are balls of fire ; 

So comes that god from strife, and such 

Is Alfred in his ire. 

Guthrum with hands bound fest with 

thongs, 
Close by his side he leads. 
And as he moves from ghastly wounds. 
The Danish giant bleeds. 
Grimly frowns the grisly Dane, 



518- LAYS or ANCIENT TIMES, 

As far across the moor, 

He sees his -warriors fight and fall, 

And hears the battle roar. 

IX, 

Hurrah 1 Hurrali ! the day is ours, 

See how the Northmen fly ; 

See how they shriek, and groan, and writhe, 

As 'neath our steel they die. 

See how the field is piled with horse. 

And spears and broken mail ; 

See how those warriors lie around, 

That from o'er the deep did sail. 

Hurrah ! Hurrah 1 for Alfred the bold, 

The generous and free, 

Hurrah I for Alfred! hear it well. 

Ye rovers of the sea. 

Ay, stately Guthrum, hear it well, 

As o'er corpse encumbered field, 

We put 3'our men to death and flight, 

All those who will not j^ield. 

Ho, ye lovely maids of Denmark, weep. 

Ho, mothers, rend 3'our hair. 

For those who never shall arise, 

From off their gory lair. 

The sight of their sails shall no more spread, 

Terror through our isle ; 

Nor their ruthless deeds shall turn to tears 

A British maiden's smile. 

And when ye Danish warriors come. 

To fight on British green, 

Know our hearts are bold, our arms are 
strong, 

And mind, our swords ajre keen. 

Know our Alfred is the chief, 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 519 

To scatter and to slay, 

And never shall ye conquer here, 

While Alfred leads the fray. 

Our Alfred ever shines in peace, 

His people's guiding star ; 

And when their troubles gather round, 

He drives them back afar. 

His like the world ne'er saw before, 

And ne'er again shall see ; 

A bold protector of his throne, 

The valiant and the free. 

Ho, blow ye winds, and waft his praise 

To all the realms around 1 

For long as this old world shall stand 

His mighty fame shall sound. 



"Now let the svork of slaughter cease, 

No more the foes pursue ; 

And gather round, my gallant chiefs, 

That I my loss may view. 

And let the joj^ous feast be spread 

Tor friends and foemen all ; 

And let the notes of gladness swell 

In bower, grove and hall. 

Come, gather fast, my sturdy men, 

The mourning and the sad ; 

Come, all ^-e weeping maids and mothers, 

And let 3^our souls be glad. 

XI. 

"Guthrum, there's a tear upon thy cheek, 

Thy heart is sad, I know ; 

Thy grief is great, because Alfred 

Thou couldst not overthrow 1 

Why didst thou leave thy native land 



520 LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 

And come lo conquer me ? 

To Lochlin's realm I never went, 

Nor ever injured thee. 

Safe in Denmark's groves of pine 

Thou stretchedst thy limbs, at ease ; 

And never once to trouble thee 

Did Alfred sail the seas — 

Yet thou comest with fire and sword, 

To lay my kingdom low ; 

And half my land in ruin lies, 

B}^ thee, my conquer'd foe I 

Now might I slay thee with my brand, 

But no — I bid thee live 

And be m}^ friend. — Northumberland 

To thee I'll freely give. 

There take thou thy plundering hordes, 

And settle down in peace : — 

I loose thy bands, so twixt us twain 

Now let all hatred cease : 

But if e'er again we meet in strife, 

That meeting thou shalt rue 1" 

So Alfred unto Guthrum spake, 

And to his halls withdrew, 

XII. 

Lo I from his halls our Alfred comes, 

Ethelswytha by his side ; 

Our own dear Ethelswytlia, 

Alfred's beauteous bride. 

Hail, courageous Ethelswytha, 

Our most gracious queen! 

The patient sharer of our ills, 

The pious, the serene ; 

The fairest of all womankind 

That e'er the sun bas seen I 



LAYS OF ANCIENT TIMES. 521 

Hol clear their path, ye British youths I 

Scatter flowers, ye maids, 

And haste to join the merrj' dance 

Beneath the greenwood shades 1 

And glor^^ to the Lord of Hosts, 

From whom all glories flow 1 

For by His gracious aid alone 

The Dane we overthrow. 

Oh I pi'aise ye the Eternal God, 

Who gave us life and blood ! 

Aye, honored be His holy name, 

Alike on land and flood 1 



SONG OF THE ENGINEER TO HIS 
ENGINE 

while conveying President Garfield from 
Washington to Long Branch 

Put forth your speed m}- iron steed 

With limbs Ihat heed no toil, 

Your joints of steel no wear can feel 

While oiled with best of oil. 

Round choicest coal your flame shall roll, 

And make j'our furnace glow 

With fire red as ever bred. 

Or earthly flame can show. 

Send feelings warm through all your form 

And to your boiler flow, 

And make its flood like living blood 

Life to each limb bestow ; 

As a thing of thought with vigor fraught 

For any deed to do. 

Speed on your course my iron horse 

With force forever new, 



522 SONG OF THE ENGINEER. 

O'ei' brake and dell, o'er moor and fell, 

By hamlet, town and tower. 

With deathless speed leap forth my steed 

Full sixty miles an hour. 

Round bend and curve with steady nerve, 

And eyes that swerve not ever 

From off your course, my iron horse 

I'll force, guide and fail you never. 

From Washington we journey on 

To where the Atlantic rolls. 

So swift we flee we scarcely see 

The line of telegraph poles, 

And railroad ties beneath mine ej'es 

Seem ever into one combined, 

And rock and tree we scarcely see 

Ere it is left leagues behind ! 

Unmatched in flight, with peerless might 

You speed the rails along, 

O'er miles 30U bound ere I can sound 

A single line of song. 

Swift as the wind of sultry Ind 

When Siroccos rise in wrath, 

No stop nor stay, pursue 3'our way 

'Long your sounding iron path. 

At early day you took your waj^. 

And have safely travelled through 

Mar3'land fair and Delaware, 

And Pennsylvania too, 

And reached the sand of Jersey land, 

Although it is scarcely noon. 

The Atlantic shore where billows roar, 

Aha 1 we will see it soon 1 

A mile a minute, we shall win it 

Long ere shall the clock strike two ; 

And the wide space of ocean's face 



SONG OP THE ENGINEER. 523 

Onr President shall view ; 

May God restore his health once more, 

Heal the grim assassin's wound, 

And may the breeze from out those seas 

Him with soothing airs surround. 

By many a crowd with sorrow bowed, 

And grim and silent grief, 

In vast array they throng your way, 

And mourn for their stricken chief, 

With hats in hand all mute they stand, 

Gaze upon 3'on speeding past, 

Mile after mile in ceaseless file 

They throng round by thousands vast I 

May every prayer they're breathing there 

For welfare of our chief — 

Yes, every word by Him be heard 

"Who giveth joy as well as grief I 

Pride of the breeds of iron steeds 

Your task is almost done, 

Lo, yonder lies before mine eyes 

The ocean glowing to the sun ! 

Another stroke and puff of smoke 

That forms your tawny mane. 

And we shall view the ocean blue 

And see his billows plain. 

Aha, my horse, you've run your course, 

Still all life is in your breath, 

Yet,like mortal mould you'll now grow cold, 

And rest still as man in death 1 

* ♦ * 

THE DROUGHT of 1880. 

A prayer for rain. 

Xo sign of rain is seen on high 
By either day nor night, 



524 DROUGHT. 

The earth is thirst^', parched and dr}^, 

And turning strange through blight. 

The grass has lost its glowing green 

And donn'd a yellow shade, 

On plant and tree the drought is seeij 

Where e'er the eye pervade. 

The withered fruit falls from the stem 

Drops on the burning sand ; 

The blasting drought doth overwhelm 

The grain throughout the land. 

No coming harvest doth appear 

Where corn and wheat were sown, 

The blade grows sear and black the ear, 

Ere it is half way grown ; 

No longer flows the crystal rill, 

The brook is gone and dry. 

And over moor and dale and hill 

No sign of rain is nigh. 

Save smoke from distant, burning towns, 

And blazing forests vast, 

And flame wrapt grass of withered downs 

Borne on the sultry blast, 

That spreads a darkness o'er the spheres, 

And bloody turns the sun. 

No other sign of rain appears 

Across the heavens dun ! 

Oh, Lord Almighty ! God of all, 

Of heaven, earth and space, 

By whom the sun and spheres shall fall. 

Or ever keep their place. 

The boundless and eternal Lord, 

Of every race and clime, 

The awed, the worshiped and adored 

Through past and coming time. 

Oh, Lord, God 1 hear Thou our prayer 



DROUGHT. 525 

And pit}^ our distress 1 

Oh, cease this drought so long and drear, 

With rain once more us bless 1 

Let clouds once more the skies spread o'er, 

Let fall their rain on earth, * 

The flowing rill and brook restore, 

Let moisture cease its dearth. 

Let floods of gentle rain, oh, Lord, 

These arid regions bless. 

This very night let it be poured, 

And comfort our distress ! 



THE ATTACK ON CHARLESTON. 

I sing the fight, the dreadful fight, at 
Charleston harbor done, 

When Northern iron-clads by Southern 
ramparts dared to run. 

The day was beautiful and bright, the 
winds had sunk to sleep. 

The Northern fleet for miles around lay 
basking on the deep ; 

All gay with flags and loaded down with 
joyous human freight, 

The}^ lie on ocean's breast and for the 
battle signal wait. 

Far awa}^ in grim array with bristling can- 
non crown 'd, 

In dark and awful solitude the Southern 
ramparts frown 'd. 

As slowly up the channel came nine mon- 
sters huge and black. 

The Keokuk ahead, the rest were plowing 
in her track. 



526 THE ATTACK ON CHARLESTON. 

All smeared with slush and grease, all 

void of shape and ghastly grim, 
They looked like barren, naked isles, all 

gloom}^, foul and dim. 
Wikh puff of steam and clouds of smoke 

they stemmed the shining tide ; 
Onward in stern procession came a na- 
tion's hope and pride. 
Little they thought those monsters grim 

with all their boasted power, 
Should shattered fly from the foes, with 

the strife of one short hour. 
But hark, there comes a sound as of ten 

thousand peals of thunder, 
The ocean groans, and earth seems with 

an earthquake torn assunder. 
And broad, terrific sheets of flame flash 

from the forts to sky, 
And screaming through the air a thousand 

burning meteors fly. 
As the crash of avalanches down Alpine 

wastes of snow, 
So on those iron monsters grim the fla- 
ming steel bolts go. 
Loud and fast the iron plates with all their 

giant timbers crash ; 
High the bullet beaten waters of the ocean 

dash. 
Fast with storms of shot and shell Fort 

Moultrie's mortars fill the air. 
The guns of Cumming's battery roar, while 

Sumter's cannons blare. 
But hark, to the guns of the iron clads far 

across the waters, 



THE ATTACK ON CHARLESTON. 527 

Boom, on boom like deep volcanic notes 

peal their mighty mortars 1 
Yast their huge artillery roars in sounds 

unknown to time, 
And midst the waters of the deep those 

monsters look sublime. 
!Now does the ocean roll around in floods 

of milk white spray, 
As the foam that flies for leagues around 

in Biscay's stormy bay. 
O'er the waters white flying, burning 

bombshells send a passing glow, 
Swift, bright as flashes from Northern 

lights cast on virgin snow. 
And o'er the land and heaving deep sul- 
phureous gloom is cast. 
Dark as that o'er Nubian wastes, when 

comes the howling blast, 
And solid darkness reigns supreme above 

the stirring land. 
And air is filled with tumult dread from 

whirling of the sand. 
But broader soon becomes the blaze, and 

louder still the din. 
And faster from the forts is heard the 

roaring culverin! 
Now all silent on the rolling surge the 

iron monsters lie, 
While fast from forts upon their sides the 

vollied thunders fly. 
Hark, how their iron turrets crash as balls 

go driving through 1 
And hark, to the smash of decks and sides 
Of wood and iron too 1 



528 THE ATTACK ON CHARLESTON. 

The guns awhile their thunders pause, and 

steel bolts cease to rain, 
The breeze lifts up the solid gloom that 

hid the forts and main, 
And shows once more the iron clads, lo, 

balls haA'e left their print. 
Their turrets and their sides all battered 

are with many a dint, 
But see the Keokuk, her ghastly wounds 

are gaping wide, 
She lies indeed a helpless wreck on ocean's 

tossing tide. 
Like all the rest her force was tried and 

she was wanting found, 
She steers from out the dreadful fra}' Avith 

ghastly glory crown 'd. 
She and all the rest with all their vaunted 

strength and powei* — 
Shattered, ruined moves away, with the 

strife of one short hour. 
With broken, battered decks, and turrets 

all to ruin hurled, 
Forlorn she looks and all the rest that 

erst defied the world. 
Behold, she totters and she reels upon the 

tossing wave ! 
Down forever goes the Keokuk into her 

yawning grave 1 
Thus brothers met in deadly fray, thus 

brothers grimly fought 1 
And the astonished world gazed on the 

ruins that they wrought. 



CHRADEfe. 529 



To Lizzie. 



Oh, Lizzie dear with golden hair 

And cheeks so fair to see ! 

And sparkling eyes like starry skies, 

And yet so full of glee, 

I love thee so no words I know, 

Mongst all the tongues on earth 

That could tell thee, how I love thy snowy 

hrow. 
And face so full of mirth. 
I would forgo all girls I know 
Both east, west, north and south, 
If I could kiss that foimt of bliss 
Thy rosy little mouth, 
Those ruddy lips just like a rose 
In the bright, warm month of May, 
That on a dewy morning blows 
Beneath the warm sunshine's ray. 

To May. 

Sunshine of my soul, joy of my heart, 
Oh, could we but meet and never part I 
Till eternity shall sow its jears. 
Until being fades and disappears I 
I cherish, yea, more than worship thee. 
All, all my thoughts thine ever be I 
Bright maiden with the laughing face, 
Earth shows no sweeter mongst all its race, 
No fairer form, no brighter eye, 
No cheeks with purer rainbow dye, 
No brighter, truer, kinder soul, 
O'er all its space from pole to pole. 



530 CHRADES. 

To Em 

Oh, tliou idol of my soiill 

Thou cherub of my hearty 

With thee I am perfect, whole, 

Without thee I am only part. 

Oh, yes, I loA-e, I love thee so, 

No "words on earth that love can tell 1 

And thee I'll love through weal and woe, 

Long as on earth I dwell. 

I'll hug thee to my loving heart, 

And press thee to my breast, 

And when from this being we depart — 

I'd hug thee in the grave's long rest. 

My Yankee Maid, 

My Yankee maid, my Yankee maid, 

Oh, she was fair as fair could be I 

The lily with its charms arrayed 

Was not one mite so sweet as she, 

I met her in the distant North^ 

'Mongst the green hills of fair Vermont, 

One sultry day as I roamed forth 

Beside a panting, crj-stal font 

I learned to love her from the first 

Most deeply, tenderly and true, 

I thought my loving heart would burst, 

So wild, so deep my passion grew. 

One eve 1 told her of my love, 

How my heart for her was riven, 

And asked her if she'd be my dove, 

And make for me this earth a heaven ; 

Thengrasped her hand, but kissed her glove, 

Which was white as snow when driven, 

But she pointed to the sky above, 



CHRADES. 531 

Saying, ne'er sweeter eve was given ! 

If earth could from her children run; 

(Thus unto her again I spake,) 

Or leave the seasons, leave the sun, 

And heaven leave, and God forsake, 

Then only could I cease to love, 

And worship e'en the ground she trod ; 

Still she pointed to the sky above, 

Saying, man should only worship God. 

I told her that I craved a kiss, 

I was sure she had one for me, 

She said, she'd not refuse me this, 

But give not one to nie would she. 

I told her ample wealth 1 had, 

And it to her should all be given, 

If she through life with me should gad, 

And ease the heart that she had riven I 

She smiled, then sighed and dropped her 

head 
Upon my aching, throbbing breast ; 
I saw her blush like scarlet, red. 
As close to mine her cheek she pressed, 
1 saw the tear start to her eye, 
And trickle down her rosy cheek ; 
Yes, I'll be thine she made reply, 
In accents clear, distinct, though meek I 

CHARADE. 

No. 1. 

My first to earth Pandora brought, 
When for Prometheus she sought. 
And o'er the whole wide world 'tis known, 
From pole to pole, from z.one to zone, 
And here it will bide forever more 



532 



CHARADES. 

On every sea, on ever^^ shore, 

Where ever breathing things are found, 

Where e'er the human race is bound, 

DTvell 'midst holiness and crime, 

'Till nature's death knell God shall chime. 

M}^ second was in Eden found, 
And there with perfect beauty crown'd. 
It charmed completely woman's soul, 
And it doth still her heart control. 
And still until her race shall end, 
Her love will towards my second tend ; 
And in return 'twill solace her. 
Though oft it may against her err. 
And though it may her spirit break 
She'll never wholly it forsake. 

My whole, nature from her treasures vast, 
Ere on her fell death and sorrow's blast — 
Her best elements together brought. 
And on the shrine of beauty wrought, 
A something with all glor}^ fraught 
Of chai'ms beyond the seraph's thought. 
The cljoicest thing she e'er could plan, 
And gave that grandest thing to maa, 
To fill his soul with light and love, 
And fit him for the spheres above. 

No. 2. 

Fly from my first, poor mortal child, 

When nights are dark and tempests wild, 

For men of every clime and age — ■ 

Know well how terrible its rage 1 

Hail to my longed for second, hail ! 

Let gladness Sarah's soul assail. 

For it she prayed both day and night. 



CHARADES. 533 

'Till it blest her Abraham's sight I 
As round their cycles ages roll — 
They "will forever bring my whole. 
Yes, as times flies with lightning wing, 
It will my whole forever bring. 

No. 3 

My first is sought by all mankind, 

It cheers their heart and soothes their mind , 

And makes them unto toil resigned, 

If good and plenty they can find. 

And every breathing thing on earth 

It needs the moment of their birth 

Whether it comes in form of air. 

Or art or nature it prepare. 

Hail to my next, where ever found, 
In sandy soil or rocky ground 1 
Fast towards it o'er the barren waste — 
Both weary beasts and mortals haste. 
For it poor Hagar longing lay 
With Ismael on her lonely way. 
Woe, to the dreary desert, woe, 
That never shall my second know. 

Oh, breathe my whole m whispers low, 
Let it be said in joy or woe, 
For in it lies the saddest sound — 
'Mongst all the syllables ^et found ; 
Go, breathe it o'er the loved one's bier- — 
Whose voice you never more shall hear — 
'Till comes the Judgment trumpet's roll. 
And man takes back that guest, his soul ! 

No. 4. 

My first is wrought by storm and blast. 
And from the clouds o'er earth is cast ; 



534 CHARADES. 

Shields well the ground with fleecy robe 
From Winter storms ihat sweep the globe. 

My second oft on battle plains 
Disturbs the air when havoc reigns, 
And brings many a soldier brave 
Unto a grim, untimel}'^ grave. 

My whole is a flower, sweet and fair 
As ever waved in morning air ; 
'Tis found where choicest flowers grow, 
Is white as foam, or drifting snow. 

No. 5. 

My first, may every race and creed 
Forever find in time of need ; 
And may it always faithful be, 
As is the shadow to the tree. 

Still safely may my second go. 
Wherever rippling waters flow ; 
Uninjured still, hy flood and storm, 
Forever keep its stately form. 

Oh, may my whole forever live, 
While God shall life to mortals give ; 
And may it fill each human soul, 
And all the living things control. 

No. 6. 

My first is the name of a tree 
Oft in the land of Egypt seen, 
Whose fruit alike on land and sea, 
Is loved by human kind, I ween ; 
For out of it a drink they make, 
Which seldom men refuse to take. 
My second is a well-known thing 
Which oft is used by mortal kind, 



CHARADES. 535 

That frequeat in the floods they fliug, 
"When living things they strive to find, 
Which, when caught, add to their food, 
And satisfy their hungry mood. 

My whole is an article of dress, 
By lovely maids and women worn, 
Which, when well shaped, all men confess 
Do well the gentle sex adorn ; 
Which no maid, you well may doubt. 
Would be seen iu church or street without. 

No. 1. 
When stars are shining mild and bright, 
I love my first the best, 
For then I sit beneath their light 
And after thoughts I quest. 
I seek for lightnings in my verse. 
And thunders in my rhyme, 
There, majesty, loftiness disperse. 
And mingle thoughts sublime. 
My next all comely is of form, 
When treated kind and well, 
And oft help 'd men through shine and storm 
O'er mountain and o'er dell. 
And ever kind and gentle still. 
If men will be the same. 
My next will pass o'er dell and hill. 
The movintain's craggy frame. 
Still alwaj^s keep me Irom my whole, 
Wherever I shall be. 
The thunder in its wildest roll. 
The plunging of the sea. 
Swift falling from the giddy height, 
Grim earthquakes stirring round, 
And every demon of affright, 
Within my whole are found. 



536 RIDDLES. 

KIDDLE. 

No. 1. 
Though discord and terror I ever have stirred, 
And loud in the roll of the thunder been heard, 
Without me no banner wag ever unfurled, 
And the lone wold I changed into a "world. 
I dwell in the earth, the whirlwind and storm, 
Ride through the carnage, when slaughter is warm. 
In the roar of the strife I always am found, 
And though in its rear, with glory I'm crowned, 
In the courts of monarchs I ever reside. 
Am found in their purple and seen in their pride. 
With the fair virgin, all rosy and grand, 
I, with her lover, at the altar do stand. 
I dwell with the virtuous, righteous and true. 
And the poor sinner's misfortunes I rue. 
Without me no tyrant yet brandished a sword, 
I shun sin and folly, and dwell in the Lord. 
I roam with herds over deserts afar, 
Dwell in the fire and live in the star. 
Without me the nun may smile in her joy, 
And with her beads and candle may toy ; 
But in all her mirth, her praise and her prayer 
I'll mingle, and in her grief and her care. 
Prop her when sorrows aroand her shall crowd. 
Depart at her death, but be seen in her shroud. 
With me the sailor o'er waters shall roam. 
But I cannot guide him back to his home. 
I dwell in regions of darkness and wrong. 
And in the grim warrior's errors I throng. 
I start religion and end every war, 
Begin with the rich and close with the poor. 

No. 2. 
I flow with the waters and swim with the whale, 
, Roam' with the wretched, when sorrows do swale. 
Crawl o'er the wall with the wreath of the vine. 
Come with all wrong from the work of the wine. 
Watch with the wicked, the ways of the law. 
Whisper warnings when their weapons they draw. 
I lead forth the whirlwind wild on its way. 



RIDDLES. 



)1 



And its woeful wreck forever I sway. 

I'm seen on the \\a\e and mixed with its swell, 

Am found with waters wherever they dwell. 

Through my aid the weeping willow shall grow. 

And its branches, shall wa\e to winds that blow.' 

I'll be seen whereever its twigs are twirled. 

I'll be also at the van of the world. 

I'm found with every sweet little flower, 

Come to it with the dew and the shower. 

Lovely woman I always worship and woo 

And attend all weddings, willingly too. 

Dwell with the worthy and worthless in wealth, 

But am not found in their pleasure nor healtJi. 

I'm seen with swallows while up on their wing, 

But join I not in the songs that they sing. 

I start every wrong and end every law 

Yes, journey with those who \Forship with awe, 

To the world on wings of the wind I sweep, 

And o'er the woes of the wretched I weep. 

I'm in the rear of all sorrow ve know 

Stand forever in the van of all woe. 

I shun all misfortune, and keep out of strife 

For I always am home, waiting on wife. 

No. 3. 
I come with the tempest, tumult and night 
Glitter o'er earth when the lightnings are briffht • 
Terrific strength I bestow to the storm 
And fade from cloud-land when leven is warm. 
Terror leave to grim error, depart with his horn, 
Before me the earth grows teeming with thorn. 
In confines of death I always am found • 
Without me with breath no mortal is crown'd. 
At the real of the night, I fly over the land 
And at the lone tomb, first mourner I stand. 
In scenes of happiness, pleasure and love 
I never am seen, nor in regions above. 
But midst all gayity, rapture and mirth 
I triumph in sight and mingle in earth. 
The way to win treasure to mortals I taught 
For I am the goal and the start of all thought 



538 RIDDLES. 

Through me the ear knows the fall of the tear, 
As I leap from the heart its sound it shall liear. 
Through me every art shall be left for a tart, 
And the bright star from the firmament start. 
To the pen, I fly from folly's vast train, 
And leave it pent in a shower of rain, 
I fly from the tyrant, lo, he is rent. 
And with grim tempest I cover his tent, 
Without me the angler his line shall unroll, 
But I'll be with him when beginning to troll. 

No. 4. 
I am found in Beauty and fame. 
And in earth, in heaven and flame ; 
Without me no forest was seen, 
Nor its leaflets ever were green. 
I am found in peace and in love, 
And dwell with the seraphs above. 
Yet in hell and in woe I am found, 
And all evils that beings surround ; 
And dwell with the crippled and lame ; 
Can any one tell me my name ? 

No. 5. 
I dwell in the centre of space, 
And if rooted out of my place — 
The planets and heavens would fall, 
And no star would be beaming at all. 

No. 6. 
Brightness unto light I give. 
And every thing by me doth live. 
Yet, every thing by me shall die. 
And silent in the grave shall lie. 

No. 7. 
On every rugged road I've trod — 
With feet unsandled and unshod ; 
Though with the devil aye I plod, 
I never yet deserted God. 



IN MEMORIAM, F. B. H. 539 

IX MEMORIAM, F. B. H. 
Calm and fair she lies in her dreamless rest, 
Her small white hands fulded across her 

breast ; 
Though her once laughing eye is closed 

in death, 
Her bosom heaves noniore with vital breath, 
Yet death o'er her beauteousfeaturesthrows 
A steadfast smile of deep and sweet repose. 
She like a hol^^ seraph looks at rest, 
In the eternal sunshine of the blest. 
Ever dreaming of bliss, feeling the while, 
The radiant warmth of its Maker's smile I 
Weep no more for her, for her lot is Peace, 
An heritage of Joy that never shall cease, 
Of Praise and Immortality above ; 
O'er her smiles the Eye of tenderest love ; 
And underneath ever shielded from harms, 
Sustains her safe the Everlasting Arms, 
She is not dead — her spirit is not dead. 
But to the bosom of her Saviour fled ; 
The hiding place of ransomed, happy souls, 
While fixed Eternity its cycles rolls. 
That part of her that was not born to die. 
Is now a laughing angel in the sky ; 
Left its earthly prison-house a useless clod, 
For its final home, the bosom of its God ! 
Her God has wiped all sorrow from her e^e, 
All gloom from her fair soul, banished 

every sigh. 
For grief has given her peace, for fear, 

fixed hope ; 
And eternal home bej'ond the starrj- cope. 
For earth's deceitful cup of bitter woe. 
Rivers of plentiness that sweetl}' flow ; 



540 MORTALS. 

For storm, for rime, for hurricane and blast, 
Sunshine where no clouds their durk sha- 
dows cast. 
At her change, why on seas of sorrow toss? 
Or make her bright gain, our grievous loss ? 
She 's but gone from this world into the next, 
Soon we too shall go, why fret and be vext ? 
And sorrow o'er the death of those we love, 
Is but murmuring 'gainst the Will above! 
Bliss beyond conception, oh, happ^^ hour; 
To limn its joys, no earth-born words have 

power, 
When bursting from mortality's control. 
To its loved Maker bounds the righteous 

soull 
Springs as a giant forth from world like this 
To unutterable, neverending bliss. 
This is the time of joy beyond control, 
The grand emancipation of the soul, 
The moment when the galling gyves are 

riven. 
And soaring wings are to the spirit given ! 



MORTALS. 

Mortal why trouble and grief will you 

borrow 
From your friend as a glorious treasure ? 
Leave him alone with his mountain of 

sorrow 

If you can't change it to gladness and 

pleasure : 
Perhaps far less he had met with sore trials 
Had he forced on himself more denials. 
Mortal banish all trouble and sorrow, 
Laugh, ea*i, drink, sleep sound and be merry, 
For pei'haps long ere cometh to morrow 
Death will come, grim old Charon will 

ferry 
You over the river, unto his regions, 
Whence you never shall part from his 

legions 1 



JUL 24 lyui 



THE 



Poetical # Romances 



Dr. J. Dunbar Hylton. 



BETRAYED : A Northern Tale in seven parts. One volume, 8vo, 288 pages, price $1.25. 

THE BRIDE OF GETTYSBURG. An Episode of 1863. In three parts. One 
volume, 8vo, 172 pages, price $1.25. 

ABOVE THE GRAVE AND THE PR/ESIDICIDE, Etc. One volume, 8vo, 
228 pages, price $1.25. 

THE HEIR OF LYOLYNN. A Tale of Sea and Land, in seven parts; Lays of An- 
cient Times ; Song of the Engineer to liis Engine while conveying President Garfield 
from Washington to Long Branch, etc. ; and numerous Charades and Riddles. One 
volume, 8vo, 540 pages, price $2.00. 



All the above volumes will be sent, post-paid, upon receipt of the price by the publisher, 

J. DUNBAR HYLTON, 

^W'lJi-e four volumes for ^5.00, free of postage. 



NOTICES FROM SOME OF THE NEWSPAPERS. 



("Hylton's verses !iv(! Tree, rapid, and pictiir- 
I'sqae. and richly freighted with simile and luet- 
t iiphor." — Philadelphia Inquirer. 

"The 'Heir of Lyolyim ' is a thrilling uccoiint 
of shipwreck, told in well-ehosen language, and 
j'eaches tiiglits of poetic fancy tliat are really 
luagniticenl."— r/ie Enlerprise, VVonewoe, Wis- 
consin. 

'■Those who are fond of reading bold, wild, 
daiing fliglits oi fancy will find them to tlieir 
heart's coiitent in Mr. "Hylton's poems."— Mowni 
Holly Herald, New Jersey. 

" Mr. Hylton is an industrious man, wliether as 
fanner, miner, or i)oet. As an agriculturist and 
bii-iness man. )iis reputation lias lieeti estab- 
lished; as a bani, he lias now shot his arrow to 
the murk."— ires^ .Jersey Press, Camden. New 
•lei'sey. 



"The ' Bride of Gettysl)urg' is a majestic epic 
linexn.^' —Philadelphia Ledger. 

"The 'Heir of Lyolynn' is a weird tale told in 
rliyme and measure, imparting to the reader all 
the fascination and delight that attend tlie most 
charming romance. — Toledo Evening Bee. 

"Hylton seems to have a never-failing power 
of expressing his thoughts in the most harmoni- 
ous I'hyme. He is rie;i in landscape descri))tion, 
and his delineation of cliaracter is a study." — 
Burlington Hawkeye. 

'• Every reader of taste will be entertained with 
Uylton's" iioenis. He blends pliilosophy. Soripl- 
ure, history, tradition and romance into one mag- 
nificent system, in the description of wliicli he 
displays a strength and liarmony of fancy not 
inferior to that oi the greatest ot poets."— ii'iie?-^ 
Saturday. 



ABOVE THE GRAVE OF JOHN ODENSWURGE. A Cosmopolite. By J. 
D. HybTON. 



"The wide range of sul)jects emljraced in this 
volume will, without doubt, .secure for it readers 
from all true lovers of literature. Mr. Hylton 
shows throughout the entire book power and 
talent of the highest order."— Pt«sowrfir Daily 
Post. 

"Tliere is a vast amount of humor of the re- 
fined and lofty style in ' Above thi^ Grave.' . . . 
It is impossible to avoid tlie susiiicion that these 
poems are suggested by an actual heart experi- 
ence. . . . There is a tone of real agony in the 
poet's wail for the .Jersey girl, iinmnred in a dis- 
tant convent."— 27ie New York Sun. 

"IlyUon's poems are instructive and (mtertain- 
ing."' — Literary Life. 

"There is a wild recklessness aliont their metre 
that indicates an untamed spirit that animates 
his poems tiironghout."- y/ifi Critic and Good 
Liternture. 



"Hylton's 'Lays of Ancient Times' ring with 
the clasli of steel, and stir tlie soul lilce the sound 
of a trumpet. He is jierfectly at home in either 
seem s of love or war."— r/ie Press, Philadelphia. 

"His ideas are lofty and vigorously expressed." 
— The Literary World. 

"Hylton's poems are full of life and fancy, 
whatever the sulyect he treats, let it be peace or 
war.'' — Camden Democrat. 

"Dr. Hylton's poems are all tumult and stir. 
There is a grand recklessness and savage energy 
disjilayed in many of his scenes, which greatly 
increases our admiration of the author's abili- 
ties. His writings are beautiful throughout and 
the whole wrapped in a rich and redundant veil 
of poetrj', where everything l)i-i'athes the jinre 
essence of genius and power." — The Saturday 
Review, London, Kng. 




,dr;^>^S^SSaK^; 






